National Bank of Belgium, Brussels

The National Bank of Belgium is a monument from 1954 that had become heavily polluted and outdated due to intensive use over the past seventy years. It was high time for a thorough renovation. In collaboration with Ney & Partners, we implemented thoughtful interventions in three distinct areas: the teller hall on the ground floor, the atrium above it, and the addition of a new glass roof atop the fourth floor.

Preserving the flair of the historic teller hall was the starting point for the design. The modern execution in sustainable materials enhances the historic character. A highlight is the renewed ceiling: a slender barrel vault made of small T-profiles, with profiled glass in a traditional checkerboard pattern.

To preserve the integrity of the monument, a new glass roof was installed atop the fourth floor. The pleasant intermediate climate it creates ensures a clean atrium, providing a beautiful view for the surrounding residents. The glass design is modern and imaginative, reminiscent of a moving water surface. Parallel steel slats are arranged in a wavy pattern and filled with heat-resistant glass. The structure spans the entire length of the atrium (80 meters) and is fully supported by the existing column structure of the various buildings.

Renewing in both historical and modern styles has restored the Bank of Belgium’s character and conviction.

Architect: L. van der Pol
Team: J. Rombouts
With: Ney & Partners
Number: 1107
Status: Built
Year: 2011 - 2018
Client: National Bank of Belgium

Please download the project PDF for more info about this project.