‘grand cafe’ by möhn + bouman architects in emmen, the netherlands all images courtesy of möhn + bouman architects
rotterdam-based practice möhn + bouman architects have designed a new leisure pavilion in emmen, a medium-sized city in the netherlands. being built on the site of a historical farmhouse that burnt down in 2006, the aim of ‘grand cafe’ is to reinterpret the old saxon barn in a modern way while still capturing its atmosphere and local significance. working in close cooperation with the city council, the resulting design features a faceted, geometric roof form that negotiates with its surrounding while remaining true to the original typology. in order to accommodate for a wide variety of events, the three-storey facility is largely open and flexible.
classic materials are primarily used in its construction: the building is composed of solid wooden elements, a component called ‘lignatur’ for the construction of the roof. the entire volume will also be clad in thatch but, due to its unconventional form, the architects are working closely with the dutch federation of thatchers to achieve the sharp defined lines.
‘grand cafe’ is expected to finish construction later next year.
model
site model
rendered views in context
site plan
basement
ground floor
first floor
roof plan
section
cross-section
north elevation
south elevation
west elevation
east elevation
