Orban
Hidden behind a majestic neo-classical façade facing one of the Quartier Leopold’s most iconic squares, ORBAN comprises 17000sqm of existing office space. The dense extremely efficient lay-out concentrates views overlooking peaceful inner-block gardens, proposing accesses on both the Square Orban west and the Rue d’Arlon east. Like HD54, these intrinsic qualities already making the most of what the site has to offer plead for upgrading existing volumes instead of new build, and for pushing circular economy. Currently at design stage, the project includes updated techniques, new envelopes, and updated interior fit-out. Remodeled entrances and circulation routes are proposed, optimizing both security and conviviality. New minimalist made-to-measure window frames integrate efficient glazing and sunscreens, delicately positionned in order to create varied rhythms and themes throughout the gardens … but nonetheless rigorously conforming to the 1,35m modular grid. Certainly part of the pleasure for architectesassoc is working on a stimulating design&build basis with contractor CIT Blaton … the other part is on-your-toes option-testing with Arcadis. Work on site starts March 2017.