Last week on 29 November we gave an interview about our documentary Kombiná on Radio Hoyer’s program ‘Uit de Kunst’. In this broadcast, our colleagues Lyongo Juliana and Emma Heinhuis spoke about the documentary and

The creation of a vision

During the interview, Lyongo shared his personal journey to the profession of architect. His philosophy revolves around creating spaces that foster encounters and radiate cultural inclusivity. “What does this place need to become more meaningful?” is a question that is central to all his designs. What connects all his designs is space for encounter and connection. His public buildings radiate an inclusive character, in which people from different backgrounds feel at home. His mission? To use architecture to promote social cohesion and cultural inclusivity – everywhere in the world.

This vision is not only visible in his work but also in the documentary Kombiná, which was launched this year to celebrate 25 years of our firm.

Architecture as a connection

Emma talked about how we worked on the film. “We wanted to go beyond showcasing buildings—it’s about the stories and the people behind them. We started with a script based on the architecture. But when you are making a film, you also have to be able to let your initial ideas go. After we did the first interview we knew that we wanted to change the script and to discuss more social topics – and use our projects as a ‘case-study’. If you work with a good filmmaker and a team, in this case just three people, who dare to let go of the script and set a new, revised course – you can achieve an amazing result!”

The documentary, which won second place in the AFFR Audience Award, examines the impact of architecture on social cohesion and identity. After a successful premiere in Rotterdam, the film is now travelling to the Caribbean. On 5 December, Kombiná will be shown in Curaçao (sold out), and on 8 December the film will be shown in Bonaire, where tickets are still available.

Missed it? You can listen to the interview via the button below.