The firms Snøhetta and Benthem Crouwel Architects have unveiled their idea for the House of Culture and Administration, to be located at Plein Molenberg, the central square Delfzijl, a port city now belonging to the Dutch municipality of Eemsdelta. The complex puts a theater, a library, and City Hall under a single roof.

The building is characterized by a curved facade and a sculptural roof rising to different heights. The composition of volumes strikes up a dialogue with the surroundings: one side is adapted to the urban scheme, while the other embraces the square. Inside, a central atrium acts as a ‘civic living room.’

The design results from a twelve-week collaborative process that gathered architects, local authorities, residents, and cultural organizations. The next phases will involve technical and financial adjustments, for municipal approval in October 2025.

Images courtesy of RYTM Studio for Benthem Crouwel /Snøhetta