Historic Courthouse Antwerp
After more than a decade of design, tendering, restoration and technical development, the historic courthouse in Antwerp has reached an important milestone. This iconic landmark has not only been carefully restored but has also been equipped with modern safety systems that have been fully integrated into the historic character of the site.
Throughout the entire project, Sweco played a key role in developing the fire safety concept and providing technical guidance.
- Client
- Buildings Agency, FPS Justice
- Location
- Antwerp, Belgium
- Sweco scope
- Fire safety for the complete renovation
- Partners
- HUB, Origin, Bureau Bouwtechniek, RCR, NEY, Optimit, Daidalos Peutz
From an abandoned building to future-proof heritage
When the first discussions about the project began, the former courthouse had already stood vacant for many years. The building had deteriorated significantly and large parts of the interior required extensive restoration. Over the years, the building was gradually restored to its historic appearance, including valuable architectural details, finishes and heritage elements. At the same time, it had to meet the expectations of a modern public building, with the highest standards for comfort, security and fire safety.
Fire safety without compromising heritage
One of the greatest challenges was combining today’s fire safety requirements with the preservation and protection of historic and cultural heritage. "Historic buildings rarely offer standard solutions," explains Kevin Smeyers, Senior Fire Safety Consultant at Sweco. "You continuously need to find the right balance between safety, functionality and respect for the building, while taking into account the needs of all stakeholders." A project of this scale requires creative solutions for fire detection, sprinkler systems and compartmentation without compromising the building’s historic value.
"A project like this requires creative solutions for fire detection, sprinkler systems and compartmentation, without compromising the building’s historic value."
Kevin Smeyers, Fire Risk Consultant
Intensive collaboration
The success of the project was only possible thanks to the close collaboration between a wide range of stakeholders. Architects, technical consultants, heritage specialists, structural engineers, the judiciary, the police and various public authorities worked together for many years with a shared ambition: to give a historic building a new future without compromising its identity. Throughout every project phase, Sweco supported the process, from concept studies and technical specifications to site supervision and final validation.
A project to be proud of
During the final phase, comprehensive testing and verification will confirm that all systems operate as intended before the building is officially handed over. For Kevin, the project remains particularly meaningful.
“As someone from Antwerp, this project makes me especially proud. It demonstrates how technical expertise, creativity and collaboration can contribute to preserving our heritage. In this way, we ensure that historic buildings remain relevant and functional for future generations.”
With the completion of the project, one of Antwerp’s most iconic buildings has regained its prominent place in the city’s architectural landscape.
