Prominent Emmen building to be transformed into centre for art & community life

Tenderstream member Mecanoo has been selected to design the transformation of a prominent building in Emmen, the Netherlands, into a new location for Facet, a cultural hub. The project is set to create an open, welcoming centre for culture, learning and community life, and marks an important step in the ongoing renewal of the town centre. The building is envisioned as a vibrant destination where residents, visitors and local organisations can come together and participate in cultural activities, with accessibility, flexibility, sustainability, and social interaction guiding the design process as key parts of the brief.

The selection process for the design team focused on the venue's future users. Together with various target groups and other stakeholders, Facet investigated which functions and facilities are important for the library of the future, with space for art and culture. These discussions formed the basis for the programme of requirements, which architects could consider when developing their visions. Nicole Stiekema, Facet director, says: "We have had many conversations with users, visitors, employees and partners. Their ideas and wishes form the basis for Facet's new building. This creates a building that is not only beautiful, but above all in line with what users and partners need. A place where everyone is welcome and where there is room for development, culture, and meeting."

The renewed building will contribute to a lively and inclusive town centre, while giving the existing structure in Mondriaanplein a meaningful new purpose. Arne Lijbers, partner and architect at Mecanoo, sees great potential in the site, stating: “Our design builds on the strong characteristics of the existing building, including its distinctive roofline, broad external staircase and expressive lift tower rising above the roof. We will preserve and strengthen these elements while introducing new, sometimes unexpected, features. Together, they will give Facet a contemporary identity as a cultural centre: vibrant, creative and open to everyone.”

Lucy Nordberg
Tenderstream Head of Research

This tender was first published by Tenderstream on 16.12.2025 here

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