Le Medi

For the residential project Le Medi in the Rotterdam district of Delfshaven, artist Arno Coenen designed two monumental mosaics adorning the ceilings of the entrance gates to the complex. The architecture of Le Medi draws inspiration from cities around the Mediterranean and features a bold, colorful aesthetic. Coenen’s mosaics amplify this atmosphere by blending traditional Dutch floral still lifes with patterns derived from Eastern carpets — creating a visually rich and symbolic expression of the neighborhood’s cultural diversity.

What makes this project truly special is the intensive involvement of local residents. Under the guidance of Creatief Beheer and Bureau Zoooi, they literally helped create the artwork by laying mosaic tiles themselves. This participatory process not only gave residents a tangible connection to the piece but also strengthened their sense of ownership over their new living environment.
The mosaic gateways are therefore not only visually striking but also the result of a collective effort in which art, architecture, and community come together — a powerful example of how art and participation can go hand in hand within urban renewal.

Mothership acted as curator and oversaw the participation process, coordination, and execution. The project was made possible by the housing corporation ERA Contour.