Innovative meeting places in historic Province House Zeeland by M+R
The design of the entrance of the Zeeland Province House has now been realized in its entirety with the realization of the extension dining-working café and an additional committee meeting room. In 2015, the first phase, the meeting space with conference center and the courtyard garden, was completed, followed in 2021 by the realization of the flex-working areas with additional meeting rooms and the entrance of the ‘Provinciehuis’ Zeeland.
Within the historic ‘Provinciehuis’ in Middelburg, which dates back to the twelfth century, M+R interior architecture has created a complete innovative environment for meeting and working with a clear public function. Respecting the monumental structure of the building, M+R has created large openings through which the various spaces open up to the connecting corridor around this courtyard.
These openings were designed as a linework of connections, inspired by Georges-Eugène Haussmann's urban renewal plans for the Avenue des Champs-Élysées in Paris, and as a metaphor for a pile head with its characteristic induration cracks, as a center with connecting lines. The connecting lines defined the different surrounding spaces and their use, with the resulting islands forming different meeting and consultation areas. The color scheme of the space is in line with the color palette of the Province of Zeeland, and the use of materials is inspired by folklore, but translated into modern and sustainable applications. M+R designed special carpet designs for the various spaces. The interplay of lines extends into the inner garden, where wooden decking (piers) has been placed, creating a natural relationship with the entrance and surrounding functions.
In addition, M+R interior architecture designed an innovative working environment for Building G, the Librije which was completed in 2018, while maintaining respect for the monumental character of the building. Inspiration sessions were held in close consultation with employees of the Province of Zeeland to arrive at the final design. The design reflects the DNA of the Province of Zeeland, and bio-based natural products and materials were chosen for the built-in package, such as natural stone, glass and wood - materials that can be found in the vicinity.
Every two years, the Abbey becomes the centerpiece of the Four Freedom Awards, where the world comes together. The Abbey's rich history and deep-rooted traditions go hand in hand with modern developments. With its meeting function, the Abbey fulfils a crucial role in the Province's work process, where people come together in a contemporary way and in various forms, entirely in the style of Zeeland: land in the sea.
