Client: Mongui Maduro Foundation, Shon Ena Dankmeijer
Program: Library
Status: Completed
Surface: 1100m2

Rooi Catootje, Curaçao

2010

Across from the entrance to plantation house Rooi Catootje on Curacao, the new Mongui Maduro library has taken shape. The large collection of books, magazines and other media used to be stored in the manor itself. However, it became impossible to regulate the climate enough to conserve the massive collection properly. For this reason, we designed a more controllable building that is modern but not overshadowing the other building on the plot. On top of this, we balanced Mongui Maduro very well with the surrounding nature.

Books underground

We designed the new library to be mostly housed underground. This is because here, the temperature is cooler and therefore better for the large collection of books, magazines, etc. However, we designed the entrance of Mongui Maduro above the ground to make a statement. One continuing slab starts as an awning, continues as a roof, becomes a wall and ends as the roof of the first basement level. The awning is directly across from, and in line with the axis of, Rooi Catootje.

Heights and views

The library’s entrance is respectful of the plantation house by referencing it with the thickness of the slab and with the maximum height of the building. Firstly, the slab is the same height as the band seen on the facade of the first floor of the house. Secondly, the building height is in line with the height of the house’s terrace, to maintain an unimpeded view to the southwest, also making sure plantation house Rooi Catootje remains the main building on the plot.

Downstairs, the library levels are made up out of multiple parallel walls that continue into the garden. Patios ensure that the Mongui Maduro rooms gets enough light and, together with the continuing walls, add a balanced interaction with the surrounding nature.

Gallery