May 14, 2013

CONTEMPORARY SELEXYZ DOMINICANEN BOOKSHOP NETHERLANDS


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BOOKSTORE SELEXYZ DOMINICANEN DESIGN BY MERKX & GIROD ARCHITECTS
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BOOKSTORE SELEXYZ DOMINICANEN DESIGN BY MERKX & GIROD ARCHITECTS
In Maastricht, the location demanded a completely different approach; the development of 1.200 m2 shopping space in an available area of 750 m2 floor space. The client’s original idea was to bridge the area, however the architects rejected this idea as it would disprove the architectural quality of the church’ space. Instead, they wanted to emphasize the building’s height and exceptional architecture.
The solution is a multi-level, monumental, black, walk-in bookcase situated asymmetrically in the church. In this way the left hand side of the church retains the complete height whilst on the right, visitors are directed to the upper levels of this steel ‘book-flat’. Climbing the bookcase has been made fun: visitors walk between the books and once they reach the upper level, they are able to experience the colossal dimensions of the church and view the historical murals from close-by.
The bookcase is a grand gesture, a statement that matches the monumental dimensions of the church and gives the an extra dimension. Due to the passage ways, perspectives and the use of perforated steel, the flat appears to be light and transparent in spite of its size. The object neither imposes on the space nor clashes with the church’s architecture; it enhances its experience.
The project won the 2007 Lensvelt de Architect interior design award and was recently announced ‘probably the most beautiful bookstore in the world’ by the Guardian.
Location : Former Dominicaner Kerk Maastricht
Project team : Evelyne Merkx, Patrice Girod, Bert de Munnik, Abbie Steinhauser, Josje Kuiper, Pim Houben, Ramon Wijsman, Ruben Bus
Restauration Architect : Satijnplus Architecten
Photography : Roos Aldershoff


Sometimes I wish to feel warmth of small bookshop to stay. Sometimes I wish to feel hedonist idea of lost in big bookshop between all the books and shelves in the historical place with high ceiling and music of Jacqueline Du Pre Elgar Cello Concerto. You may sit very comfortable sofa with your selection of books to check inside and explore new world. You could lost in the book. Winter time perfect to stay in coffee shop to read your selection of book with aromatic earl gray tea with vanilin cookie or chocolate with your cofee. 


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MERKX + GIROD ARCHITECTS
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Merkx+Girod’s work is characterized by their analytical approach to the design project combined with a passion for detail, materials, colour, cohesion, quality, and elegance. Quality and respect for quality go hand in hand. Interventions with, for example, a monumental building can only be successful if the architect acknowledges, recognizes and respects its original qualities. The added value of Merkx+Girod architects can be found in the special cohesion between architecture and interior, right from the project’s start.
Merkx+Girod designs interiors for privately owned buildings as well as complete strategies for large and complex interiors of public buildings, whereby both the logistic and functional requirements are integrated in a spatial vision. Since our foundation, we have worked on projects in the field of architecture, interior design, retail and product development, consultancy, exhibitions and renovation. Projects include restaurants, shops, department stores, private residences, museums, offices and public buildings.