Merkx + Girod Architects

Project: Bookstore Selexyz Dominicanen, Maastricht / Netherlands
A new use has been found for a historic Dominican church in Maastricht that dates from the 13th century. The renovated church now houses a bookstore. While there is an omnipresent sense of the building's previous history, the unusual concept is strong enough to stand up on its own in this environment. A towering, three-storey bookstack forms a contrast with the religious architecture of the interior and extends the full height of the walls to just below the ancient ceiling paintings. The lighting is modelled on contemporary church lighting systems. A café has been opened up in the choir of the church, furnished with large, cruciform tables that echo the ecclesiastical theme once again.

The jury's verdict: "The concept is notable for its sensitive, highly distinctive and assured treatment of this historic religious building."

Website: www.merkx-girod.nl

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