In the middle of the historic center of Maastricht, near the Onze Lieve Vrouweplein, a former grocery store is located on the corner of Sint Pietersstraat. Paol & Co, an agency for 17th-20th century art, wanted to open a gallery / art dealership in this beautiful location. The ground floor of the national monument had been renovated several times over the years, with the last renovation of the grocery store taking place in the 1960s, which was visible in the architecture. The task was to renovate this special location with limited resources in order to obtain an appearance that would suit both the location and the new user. 

The introduction of a front space with a monumental passage created a route from the street, introduced by the kink in the existing window, to the exhibition space. By doubling the facade to the street, the opportunity was created to display paintings on both sides in the window. At the same time, the space between the double walls became storage space and the radiators were kept out of sight. The muted colors of both the interior and the exterior contribute to the overall appearance of the gallery. 

Location: Cortenstraat 11, Maastricht 

Client: Galerie Paol & Co Fine Art 

Architect: Artesk van Royen Architecten 

Design: Teske van Royen, Wytske van der Veen 

Contractor: Fin Interieurbouw, Maastricht 

Photography: Anja Schlamann, Köln 

Execution: 2005-2006