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Client(s)L.I.F.E.
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Construction siteAntwerp
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Project architectWard Lagrain
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Architect teamFrederic Maurel
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Partner(s)CO.STUDIO
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Main contractorHooyberghs
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Competition2006
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Year2010-2013
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StatusRealised
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PhotographyBINST ARCHITECTS, L.I.F.E
Within the ‘Eilandje’ Image Quality Plan, the typical warehouse architecture in all its simplicity and strength is an important parameter as an exception for new construction projects around the MAS. In addition, on this historic port site we recognise the typical vertical articulation and diversity of façades. These two basic characteristics, starting points, were fundamental and provided guidance in the architectural translation of sixteen luxury apartments connected in a ’tetris-like’ manner. All of them are housed behind four different façades, including the central façade, which is to be retained.
The sleek composition of the grid-shaped, brick corner building is nuanced by the use of champagne-coloured infill areas that reconcile the indoor terraces and large window frames as a single patchwork.
The grandeur of the eclectic historical façade will be extended in its entirety to the newly built apartments behind it, all the way to the Adriaan Brouwerstraat. A special white brick façade with black exterior joinery is a reinterpretation of the old façade and stands for ‘stately abstraction’.
Funnel-shaped stacked terraces in natural grey architectural concrete show the silhouette of an angled façade image that offers visual comfort to the bustling events around the MAS.
The building on the far left fits in with the 16th century façade collection from the Van Schoonbekeplein and will support the entire project as a renovation. The listed gate at the back houses the entrance to a triplex residence. In addition to the entrances to the apartments, the ground floor contains the parking entrance to three underground parking levels and three commercial spaces. This renewed site will also witness the trendy MAS infusion and contribute architecturally to the classy development of the neighbourhood.
