OFFICE 164
OFFICE BUILDING – Kortrijk
The transformation of an existing office block in Kortrijk pairs the complete alteration of the facade with the retention of the original structure to improve the building’s environmental performance and save a high percentage of its embodied energy. The plan is reorganised to liberate the perimeter from its adjoining cores: the existing circulation core is maintained and optimised to accommodate a staircase and elevator, while a second core for sanitary installations is added on the opposite side of the building. The stripped-down structure is encircled by a new continuous independent facade that acts as a technical device, with a vast array of ducts and machinery concealed in a series of hollow concrete pilasters. The size and rhythm of the pilasters define four different elevations, leaving visible the conflict between the existing structure and the new facade. The new facade also supports a series of partly perforated concrete slabs of varying depth that serve as terraces or as sun protection. Set within a lush public garden, the building gains a new urban presence in a residential area.
Year
2014 – 2020
Location
Kortrijk, BE
Type
Office, Adaptive reuse, ,
Status
Built
Surface
2 040 m2
Client
Agentschap Facilitair Bedrijf – Flemish Government
Collaborator(s)
Bureau Bouwtechniek, UTIL Struktuurstudies, hp engineers, Landinzicht
Design team
Kersten Geers, David Van Severen, Alexander Smedts, Anne van Hout, Henri de Chassey, Bert Rogiers, Stefano Gariglio, Enea Facoetti
Art integration
Rita McBride
Award
Winner of the FEBE Elements Awards 2021, category ‘Outstanding Precast’
Photographs
Bas Princen