Mecanoo has been selected by the Municipality of Emmen and Facet Emmen in the Netherlands to design the transformation of the existing building at Mondriaanplein into a new cultural hub for the city.
The scheme forms part of ongoing efforts to renew Emmen’s town centre and aims to reposition the building as a shared civic space for culture, learning, and community activity.
The redeveloped facility is planned as an open setting where residents, visitors, and local organisations can come together to read, learn, meet, and participate in cultural programmes.
According to the project brief, accessibility, flexibility, sustainability, and social interaction will guide the design approach, with the building intended to accommodate a range of uses while remaining open and welcoming to the public.
Located in the centre of Emmen, the existing structure is planned to be adapted rather than replaced, with the transformation reinforcing its role within the surrounding urban context. The project is also part of a broader redevelopment of the area between Markt and Weiert, where a mix of cultural, public, retail, and residential uses is planned to strengthen activity in the town centre.
Arne Lijbers, Partner and Architect at Mecanoo, noted the building’s position and characteristics as key aspects of the design approach. He said the project will build on existing elements of the structure, including its roofline, external staircase, and lift tower, which will be retained and reinforced alongside new additions intended to define its renewed identity as a cultural centre.
Construction is expected to begin in the second half of 2027.
Images: Courtesy of Mecanoo