An inviting mix of functions in the European district
Realex Tower
The project consists of a conference centre intended for the European Commission; an independent office building; retail spaces; and areas dedicated to community facilities or public services. Ideally located in the heart of Brussels’ European Quarter and in the immediate vicinity of multimodal public transport networks.
Facts about the project
- Expertise:
- Architecture
- Atenor
- Client
- Brussels
- Location
- Greisch – Felgen
- Partners
- architecture
- Expertises
Transparancy and lush greens
The project is situated along Rue de la Loi and forms part of a broader urban development plan aimed at giving the area a new identity through the creation of open urban blocks, pedestrian routes, and open spaces connecting the different neighbourhoods while offering a strong mix of functions. A large pedestrian public space (pocket park) runs through the site. The conference centre features a high degree of transparency through a strong architectural expression offering views onto circulation spaces and foyers. The tower rests on an impressive structure designed to free the conference centre from all structural constraints.
Energy performance & certificates
Like all contemporary buildings, Realex Tower meets energy efficiency requirements. Within this framework, both technical and visual design work led to the creation of an energy-efficient façade.
- BREEAM-certificate ‘Excellent’
- Passive Building (PHPP)
- Conform EPB 2021
Building using innovative energy-saving techniques
The building has been designed to comply with the latest energy efficiency standards. The high-performance façades will be of the “double-skin” type. They consist of internal wooden window frames fitted with triple glazing; the outer glass envelope is designed to accommodate high-performance solar shading devices. Excessive solar gain, the primary cause of overheating in office buildings, will be mainly controlled by light grey blinds linked to automated sensors ensuring optimal solar protection.
The project also includes:
- rainwater harvesting from roof surfaces,
- the application of green roof systems on almost all flat roofs,
- high-performance insulation of the building envelope to reduce heat loss.