Jo Coenen chaired the jury of the Victor de Stuers Prize, which was awarded in the council chamber. In 2024, he transferred his office archive to the National Collection for Dutch Architecture and Urban Planning. Part of this archive is loaned to the Centre Céramique in Maastricht. This transfer was a special moment and a milestone in Jo Coenens long career.
Renowned Architect and Urban Planner
Jo Coenen has become one of the most important architects and urban planners in the Netherlands, with an international reputation. His work is characterized by his historic postmodern style; he advocates for more historical awareness, depth, and a sense of continuity. From 2000 to 2004, he served as Chief Government Architect, gaining significant recognition in this role.
He was a lecturer at various (university) academies of architecture in the Netherlands, Germany, and Switzerland. His reputation is partly based on projects in Limburg, such as the Céramique site and the Maas-Market project in Maastricht and the Innovatoren in Venlo. He was also the driving force behind IBA-Parkstad.
Jo Coenen was always proactive. He consistently sought solutions through service and shared responsibility in consultation with municipalities, the province, and the national government, avoiding sharp edges.
Roemer: Jo Coenen has left us four lessons: cherish history as a friend, love your city, take responsibility as a creator, and make room for connection. These are not lessons for architects alone; they are lessons for life.
Honorary Medal of the Province of Limburg
The Honorary Medal of the Province of Limburg is an exclusive distinction awarded to individuals who have achieved outstanding merits for the province of Limburg and its population. These merits must have a provincial impact and be of a very special nature.
