Upcoming Trade Shows Brussels, Belgium for Architecture

In Brussels, architecture invests in what’s already there. Adaptive reuse of existing buildings is a cornerstone of green architecture as a way to combat rising CO2 emissions, reduce the amount of new materials being used and the amount of waste created by deconstructing existing structures. An added bonus is the opportunity to preserve the unique architectural heritage Brussels is known and appreciated for the world over. One of Brussels' most celebrated adaptive reuse projects is the Gare Maritime, which serves as a testament to energy conservation and sustainability. Undertaken by Jan de Moffarts Architects, Bureau Bouwtechniek, Ney & Partners, and Boydens, this project involved the transformation of the old railway station into a dynamic hub. The restoration work meticulously preserved riveted lattice girders and three-hinge trusses while reinforcing certain sections. Sustainability takes center stage with the entire complex operating on non-fossil fuel energy. Solar panels adorn the facades and the roof, while rainwater is collected for irrigation. The ten gardens, each designed around different themes, and mosaics by artist Henri Jacobs add to the project's unique charm. The creation of green, human-inclusive spaces extends beyond the Gare Maritime. One of the most ambitious projects to refresh the city’s skylines and promote sustainability is the reimagining of the European Parliament's Paul-Henri Spaak building in Brussels. Helmed by multiple architecture studios (Julien De Smedt Architects to name one), the project seeks to renovate, preserve and use the current building as a starting point towards a new vision. One that’s going to be more accessible and energy-efficient. The design includes a latticed framework and a rooftop botanical garden called the Green Agora, which connects the building to Brussels' inner-city pedestrian network. This revitalization project seeks to strengthen the site's connections to public spaces and create an environmentally friendly architectural gem.