 |
awards colophon contact jobs mission news projects publications sustainability team | "ECODYNAMIC COMPANY"CONIX ARCHITECTS OBTAINS LABEL FROM BIM/IBGE 01.04.2011On the 1st of April, 40 companies under which Conix Architects were granted a label «Eco-dynamic company 2010-2011» from Leefmilieu Brussel(BIM)/Bruxelles Environnement (IBGE). This Brussels label, an initiative of the Minister for Environment and Energy of the Brussels-Capital Region Evelyne Huytebroeck, officially recognizes the good practices of environmental management of public and private companies. It rewards their eco-dynamism and innovation in the field of energy use, sorting out waste, mobility and the rational use of resources. Our Brussels office obtained one star for the sustainable actions taken in the field of energy (heating and electricity), mobility, waste, the purchase of goods and services. RDC Environment provided individual counseling to support our actions. The label «Eco-dynamic company 2010-2011» is an important recognition for the continuous efforts of Conix Architects in the field of sustainability and durable architecture. » sustainability For more information, please visit . | 4TH EUROPEAN SCHOOL BRUSSELS IPRESS CONFERENCE 02.05.2012During a site visit on May 2 Servais Verherstraeten, state secretary for the Buildings Agency, established that the construction of the 4th European school in Laken is progressing fast. In assignment of the High Council of the European Schools, the Belgian Buildings Agency is transforming the former royal military school into a contemporary European school for 2.500 to 3.000 pupils. In 2005 4à4 (Conix Architects, Archi 2000, Atelier d’Architecture du Sart Tilman, DMV-Architecten, Marcq & Roba) was appointed for the assignment.  In order to create a center within the site and a landmark for the surroundings and the city, a monumental frame is conceived. This frame offers a view on the Brussels skyline, connects the upper and lower part of the site and is a direct link between the 4th European school and the capital of Europe. Several durable measures (thermic isolation, durable materials, green roofs, …) ensure the sustainability of the project. According to Servais Verherstraeten, this 4th European school in the Brussels Capital region is necessary given the ever-increasing demand of classes due to the accession of new Member States to the European Union. “In order to consolidate the role of Brussels as European capital, it is necessary to invest in education for the international community in this city." The construction works should be finished by July 2012 and the students will move to their brand new school in September 2012. For more information about the project, please visit » www.conixarchitects.com/project 4th EUROPEAN SCHOOL 4TH EUROPEAN SCHOOL BRUSSELS IIOFFICIAL INAUGURATION 10.2012In October 2012, the 4Th European school in Brussels was officially inaugurated by King Albert II and Queen Paola, the President of the European Commission, José Manuel Barroso, the State Secretary for the Buildings Agency, Servais Verherstraeten and the Minister of Education, Pascal Smet. The European school opened its doors for the first time in September. At that time, already 1200 students were educated in eight different European languages. In the future, the new school will accommodate approximately 2500 to 3000 students who can benefit from the educational project. Appointed for the assignment in 2005 by the Belgian Buildings Agency, the temporary association named 4à4 (Conix Architects, Archi 2000, DMV-Architecten, Atelier d’Architecture Du Sart Tilman and Marcq & Roba) transformed the Royal Cadet School into the hypermodern European School as known today. Encapsulating the concept of Europe’s social-cultural variety, the building outshines in simplicity and serenity, combining a number of playful and dynamic elements, which set the whole in motion and thus generate the idea of subtle diversity. The common functions of the school are located in the middle of the area, around which the nursery school, the primary and the secondary school are located. Each school is, in its turn, provided with its own playground, without losing its identity. The 4th European School is a fine and striking example of the revaluation of an existing public building heritage, which contemporary style contributes to the strong visual identity of the school. Conix Architects is proud to be part of the project, contributing in this way to the consolidation of the role of Brussels as European Capital and to the investment in education. For more information, please visit AIT CHARITY CHAIRUPGRADE CHAIR FOR GOOD CAUSE 09.12.2010“Pimp my chair“, this was the invitation to 120 European architects and interior architects. In the campaign initiated by AIT and the furniture manufacturer Dietiker. renowned architectural offices under which Conix Architects participated, but also universities and creative designers. The task was to re-design the white, stackable solid-wood chair by Dietiker, to turn it into something completely different and alter it to their liking.  The result of the chairs submitted surpasses all expectations. The chairs reflect the creative potential and the range of European architects and interior architects. It is precisely the side-by-side of the designs which makes this project so extraordinary and worth seeing: 120 transformed chairs represent 120 in some cases completely contrary ideas and approaches. All the chairs have already been presented to the general public and were displayed on a major exhibition tour in the AIT Architecture salons all over Europe. The chairs transformed into art objects will be auctioned off on 9 December 2010 in Berlin. With the revenues, the Charity Chair Project supports the AIDS orphanage and the cultural center Guga St. Thebe in the Township Langa near Cape Town, South Africa. The website of AIT Charity Chair provides an overview of all the chairs, statements by the architects as well as an opportunity to join in the bidding. For more information, please visit » download Press Release ARCHIGOLDCUPCONIX ARCHITECTS WINS THE FINAL 04.02.2009On February the 4th, the final competition match of the Archigoldcup BVA 2009 took place in the sports hall of the University of Antwerp. This football competition between Flemish architectural firms is organized each year by the Bond Vlaamse Architecten: .  During the very exciting final, the Conix team beat the JEF team (from Architektenburo Jef Van Oevelen) with a convincing 6-1 victory. Although the JEF team was strong in combination football and in controlling the ball, it was not able to compete with our fast and particularly well-aimed Spanish players. From the beginning, the JEF team was forced into defense. The players did not succeed in breaking our speed and the victory was ours. Conix went home with the Archigoldcup trophy and a bunch of good memories. ARCHIZINC TROPHEEPROJECT UMICORE REWARDED 14.06.2010 On June 14, Conix Architects had the honour of receiving the Special Prize for ‘technical performance’ of the Archizinc Trophy for our Umicore project. This award, organised by VM ZINC®, aims to highlight innovative original architectural creations using zinc within 4 categories: Individual Housing, Collective Housing, Public Buildings and Commercial Buildings. Besides the Jury’s prize, special prizes were awarded for the Environment, Courage, Tradition and Technical performance. For this 4th edition, 241 projects from 25 countries where handed in. The jury composed of international architects selected 12 projects in different categories. For the new office building for Umicore in Hoboken, we wrapped the façade as well as the roof completely with zinc. The design flexibility, ecological advantages and aesthetical value of zinc were the main reasons for choosing this material. In October 2010, a special issue of Focus on zinc will be published with the winning designs. For more information about the project, please visit » www.conixarchitects.com/project UMICORE » www.conixarchitects.com/awards BE EU PAVILION EXPOEXPO OFFICIALLY FINISHED 08.11.2010 After 6 months the Expo 2010 in Shanghai has come to an end. More than 70 million people have visited the Expo, making it the biggest world exhibition in history. With more than 10 million visitors, the Belgian EU pavilion was one of most popular pavilions. It is also the only pavilion which has succeeded in making a profit. More than 3 million euros were gained from the sale of beer, chocolate and diamonds. We are very happy to announce that our pavilion is sold to Quingdao, who wishes to make the building a display of Belgium and to reinforce the ties between China and our country. In this way, the pavilion is ensured a second life after the Expo, just like we envisaged in the beginning of our design process. Last week the personnel of our pavilion was chosen as “The Best Service Team at the Expo” by the Coordination Bureau of the World Expo 2010 Shanghai in association with Shanghai Municipal Trade Union, Shanghai Municipal Youth Legal and Shanghai Municipal Women’s Association. This prize rewards all people working in the Belgian EU pavilion as the best performance team of all pavilions. We are very pleased with the success of our pavilion and look back upon our Expo adventure with great enthusiasm and pride! For more information about the project, please visit » www.conixarchitects.com/project BE EU PAVILION EXPO 2010 BE EU PAVILION EXPO SHANGHAI 2010OPENING PAVILION 01.05.10On May 1st, the Expo Shanghai 2010 and the Belgian EU pavilion were officially opened to the public. In collaboration with the JV Realys-Interbuild, we designed our pavilion around the concept of the Brain Cell, symbolizing Belgium’s artistic and scientific richness and our central position within Europe. The building’s sober exterior on the other hand refers to the openness and modesty of our country. In this way, we succeeded in creating a design which integrates itself in the Chinese context and at the same time expresses the Belgian identity.  Belgium displays its expertise in the field of mobility, sustainability and ecology, with projects like the Polar Station and the Solar Plane. In this way the public can discover Belgium in an unprecedented way, alongside typical export products like beer, chocolate and diamonds. Conix Architects considers each project as a challenge, irrespective of its scale. We are however very proud of this particular project and hope to welcome you all from the 1st of May until the 31st of October in Shanghai! The theme days of the Belgian EU pavilion: Europe day: 9 May Limburg days: 17-21 May Flanders days and environment week: 24-31 May Antwerp days: 7-10 June Belgium’s national day: 13 June Wallonia/Brussels days: 21-25 June Province of Namur: participating in the Wallonia/Brussels days East Flanders days: 23-28 August Walloon-Brabant day: 11 September West Flanders days: 15-17 September Luxembourg days: 9-10 September Brussels days: 18-22 September Liège day: 29 October For more information about the project, please visit » www.conixarchitects.com/project BE EU PAVILION EXPO 2010 BE EU PAVILION EXPO SHANGHAI 2010 + MOVIEPAVILION NEARLY FINISHED 29.03.201032 days before the start of the Expo 2010 in Shanghai, the construction of the Belgian EU pavilion is in its final stage. All elements of the scenography are built and contractors are working non-stop to have everything finished within 3 weeks. The gigantic Brain Cell, the dominant conceptual image and eyecatcher of the pavilion, will be mounted next month. The delivery of this project in a short time was only possible thanks to the support of a large group of committed partners and sponsors and an effective collaboration between the Belgian government and its regions. With a steel structure that can be easily disassembled and recycled, the construction of a public green space on approximately 30% of the surface and a roof containing more than 1000 m² solar panels, the theme of the Expo “Better City, Better Life” with its focus on durability is clearly translated in the pavilion’s concept. Moreover the ambitious Shanghai’s Roots & Shouts’ Million Tree Project was selected as our local partner in creating a greener Expo: to minimise the pavilion’s environmental impact, a forest will be planted in Inner Mongolia and the Belgian EU’s daily operations will be carbon neutral. We hope to welcome you all on May 1st in Shanghai! For more information about the project, please visit PUBLICATION ARCHI NEWS 01/2010, p. 6-7, ‘Expo Shanghai 2010. The Belgian/European pavilion’ BELGIUM BEYOND EXPECTATIONSBOOK BELGIAN EU PAVILION PUBLISHED 11.10.2010 Recently, the book ‘Belgium Beyond Expectations’ appeared with the publisher ASP. This book tells the story of our Belgian EU pavilion that has earned a very worthy place at the World Expo 2010 in Shanghai. It handles Belgium’s presence on World Expos throughout history, the Expo in Shanghai, our pavilion and its concept, the scenography and of course the construction. It is also the story of a strong team of promoters, architects, project coordinators, scenographers and managers who took on the challenge of realizing a project in less than a year, in a fascinating country with a culture that is worlds apart from our own. ‘Belgium Beyond Expectations’ has become a beautiful art book for which Conix Architects made the graphic design. The book can be ordered in book stores (ISBN: 9789054877684) and on the publisher’s website. CONIX ARCHITECTS AND RDBM ARCHITECTEN & ADVISEURSJOIN FORCESBoth teams can already build upon an impressive record and are known to be strong players in their own sectors and markets. As of today, they will gather their competencies in order to ensure an even higher quality, to realize groundbreaking projects and to further support and consolidate their international aspirations. This merger will give way to a new creative and multidisciplinary team of 65 members, whereby the expertise of each individual member will constitute an added value in all architectural domains. Operating from Antwerp, Brussels, Rotterdam and Terneuzen, they will work on several ambitious projects, reflecting the most fundamental values of both companies: research, emotion, technique and durability. CONIX RDBM will be managed by the architects Christine Conix, Jorden Goossenaerts and Frederik Jacobs. CX BATH SERIESNEW PRODUCT DESIGNThe innovative CX bathroom series, the result of a unique collaboration between Conix Architects, Domovari and Duscholux. captivates with its unique sculptural design and the spatial effect which this creates. Here, the almost ultra-cool clarity and distinctiveness of appearance arouses an emotion in the user which is precisely the opposite, namely a deep sensuousness. The fascinating nature of this dichotomy is further reinforced by the contrast between the matte surfaces and the reflective glass, which has a 'Cleartec' coating. The CX bathroom series’ range encompasses a free-standing bath, a wall-mounted shower unit with a covered drainage channel – and with an integrated double washbasin if selected – as well as a washbasin element to be installed separately.  For more information about the project, please visit » www.conixarchitects.com/project CX - BATH SERIES DE TESCHPROJECT DELIVERED 26.04.2011On the 26th of April 2011, our project ‘De Tesch’ in Hasselt was delivered. The project in assignment of DMI/Democo contains 5 clusters of various habitations for a park housing project area, part of a new development inside a park zone. Diversity was the key word in this project, both for the scale of the terrain and of the individual housing clusters. For each cluster, 4 types of habitation were designed, each offering a different internal layout with a variety of habitable surfaces and selling prices.  Facilities including green partitions, semi-paved squares and access roads and communal parking spaces for visitors have been provided to help sustain the diversity. With a view to spending one’s whole life in the same place we opted for a flexible layout, enabling kangaroo living or lifelong housing. The design of the façade, consisting of large brick surfaces alternated with elongated window openings, combines sobriety and diversity.  With the delivery of De Tesch, Hasselt has a new sustainable, affordable housing area of 3.870 m². For more information about the project, please visit » www.conixarchitects.com/project DE TESCH DEBATE G30STRIVING TO ACHIEVE SUSTAINABLE QUALITY 18.10.2011On October 18, the debate ‘European Public Procurement and the Built environment – striving to achieve sustainable quality’ was organized by the G30 Association of Architects in the prestigious Solvay library in Brussels. The goal of this association, of which Conix Architects is part of, is to bring together and represent recognized architects’ offices in Belgium in order to promote good practices and to improve this profession both at home as well as throughout Europe and internationally. The theme of the conference was the quality and sustainability of buildings and urban quarters – a recurrent concern of the G30 Members -, which is still far from satisfactory, despite the priority given to sustainable development on Europe’s political agenda. The conference entailed a debate about which criteria should be used and in what priority order when selecting architectural and urban design services, in order to achieve best value for money while preserving the resources and the overall quality of the built environment. The increasing use of PPP and DBFM methods was also on the agenda.  Several MEPs and other personalities took part in the panel. Eduardo Souto de Moura, the second Portuguese architect to win the Pritzker Architecture Prize, was one of the keynote speakers. Among the guests were European and Belgian politicians and administrators, European and Belgian associations of cities and territorial management, partners in the construction sector, financial sector and specialized press. G30’s first conference was a great success, resulting in an higher awareness and motivation amongst all those present for achieving sustainable quality. For more information about G30, please visit: » www.conixarchitects.com/sustainability DIESEL STORE BRUSSELSPROJECT DELIVERED 02.03.2013After being entirely renovated, the new Diesel store, located in the Nieuwstraat 126 in Brussels, opened its doors again in February. The head office of Diesel Italy pointed out Conix Architects as local architects, responsible for the management of the project. The brand new concept of the Diesel store was developed by Diesel Italy itself.  For more information about the project, please visit » www.conixarchitects.com/project DIESEL ERA CONTOURPROJECT DELIVERED 08.08.2011Today, the new head office for ERA Contour in Zoetermeer (the Netherlands) was delivered. Our client’s wish was to create a sustainable building that displays their dynamic company culture. The building is conceived around a square footprint and a central atrium, the true heart of the building which links all floors. The massive volume of the building is broken by splitlevels, cuts and leaps. The playful façade design is characterised by vertical lamellas alternated with closed coloured panels.  The interior creates an “open” and homelike atmosphere within the office, in order to make each collaborator feel at home and to stimulate ERA’s innovative way of co-working. Functionality was translated into a colorful whole with a house feel. Each splitlevel has its own colour. The project- and brainstorm areas create more intimate corners within the building, while the open and flex- working areas stimulate encounters, interaction and knowledge interchange. Apart from its exceptional architectural and interior concept, the building also scores in terms of sustainability, holding an A+ energy label. » www.conixarchitects.com/project ERA Contour ESF LABELQUALITY LABEL OBTAINED 28.07.2011In January 2009, we entered a call for the ‘innovative labour organization’ of the European Social Fund. ESF reinforces the implementation and innovation of the Flemish employment policy. The call had 3 main goals: to increase the control capacity of our employees, to increase their developing capacity, and to increase their motivation. After an intense period of reorganization of our office structure and working method, and with support of the ESF, Flanders Synergy and VOKA, we can proudly announce that we obtained the ESF quality label. In the future, we will continue working on the improvement of our office structure, group dynamics, work and communication tools, appraisal and award system - efforts that will serve both our clients and employees. For more information about ESF and Flanders Synergy, please visit: FIRST GREEN RETAIL STORECONIX ARCHITECTS CREATES LEED® REGISTERED-STORE FOR LEVI’S® 28.09.2011Created in partnership with Conix Architects, the latest Levi’s® brand store to open in Belgium has obtained LEED® Silver certification for its environmentally conscious design. The country’s biggest Levi’s® brand store to date, located in the heart of Liège, is a LEED® registered-project first for Conix Architects and the third Levi’s® store in Europe to have obtained this sustainable design validation. LEED® is an internationally recognized green building certification system developed by the U.S. Green Building Council. LEED® for Commercial Interiors certifies high-performance green interiors which are healthy, productive places to work, which are less costly to operate and maintain and which have a reduced environmental footprint.  The Levi’s® store was designed and constructed to lower environmental impact, with an emphasis on energy efficiency in lighting, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air conditioning) and appliances, reduction of water use and on the recycling of construction/demolition waste materials. In addition, the carefully chosen materials are reused or contain recycled content, as well as a certain percentage of virgin wood based materials that are FSC certified. LEED and the related logo is a trademark owned by the U.S. Green Building Council and is used with permission. GLASS HOUSE IPRESS CONFERENCE 09.02.2010On Tuesday the 9th of February, our project ‘Glass House’ was officially presented to the press. The project concerns the renovation of the ‘Van Ommerenhouse’, one of the first examples of modern architecture in Antwerp designed in 1938 by Brinkman and Van den Broek. After years of vacancy and use as a squat, project developer Urban Capital decided to breathe new life into the former office building. In 2011, the project will contain 16 city flats and a commercial/office space on the ground and first floor.  Conix Architects decided to restore the building with respect for the original design and integration of contemporary elements. The characteristic façade is completely re-executed in glass with aluminium window profiles and steel frames. The most important additions are the steel bridge on the back façade providing access to the flats, the creation of an inner area with an extraordinary view on the historical city centre and the contemporary shed roofs maximising the infiltration of light. With the Glass House project, one of the most striking historical buildings in Antwerp gets a new contemporary destination. According to Ludo Van Campenhout, Alderman for City Development, the renovation will be an important stimulus for the redevelopment of the surrounding areas and will make the Glass House a recognizable icon in the city. For more information about the project, please visit PUBLICATION RENOSCRIPTO 03-05/2010, p. 50-54, ‘Het Glazen Huis, creatie van stadskapitaal’ PUBLICATION GAZET VAN ANTWERPEN10/02/2010, p. 39, ‘Zevende keer goede keer voor het ‘Glazen Huis’ » download article GLASS HOUSE IIPROJECT DELIVERED 02.2012In February 2012, the Glass House was delivered. The project comprises the renovation and conversion of the ‘Van Ommerenhuis’, designed in 1938 by the Rotterdam-based architects Brinkman & Van den Broek, into a residential development of 16 apartments with a commercial/office space. While respecting the authentic elements and integrating a number of contemporary aspects, the characteristic façade is renewed and entirely made of glass, with aluminum window profiles and steel frames. The ‘Glass House’ itself is executed in dark grey, as opposed to the white staircase, penthouse, socket on the ground floor and the adjacent row house. Inspired by the modernism of the 1930’s, this contrasting use of colors visually transforms the bent grey part of the Glass House into a corbel in relation to the white part. The original character is also preserved when renewing the back façade and the existing shed roofs, which are replaced by rectangular roof windows in anthracite zinc, maximizing the infiltration of light. The internal structure, as well as the monumental interior stares, remain unchanged, while passages, executed in steel and bankirai, give way to the apartments. With the Glass House project, one of the most remarkable historic buildings of Antwerp is given a new, contemporary destination. The renovation is of strategic importance to the redevelopment of the surroundings areas and transforms the Glass House into a recognizable icon within the town center. For more information about the project, please visit PUBLICATION RENOSCRIPTO 03-05/2010, p. 50-54, ‘Het Glazen Huis, creatie van stadskapitaal’ PUBLICATION GAZET VAN ANTWERPEN10/02/2010, p. 39, ‘Zevende keer goede keer voor het ‘Glazen Huis’ » download article GOOD DESIGN™ AWARDCX BATH SERIES REWARDED 18.12.2009Sanitary collection wins Good Design™ Award In December 2009, Conix Architects received a prestigious Good Design™ Award for its CX sanitary collection. The awards program, organized by the Chicago Athenaeum, was founded in 1950 and is the oldest and world’s most recognized program for product design. Submitted designs from over 35 nations ranged from a NASA Manned Mars Exploration vehicle to a Green Design Clean filtering system for rural South Africa. The distinction for the Good Design™ Award of our CX bath series, developed in collaboration with Duscholux, recognizes the pure, minimalist lines of the collection and will hopefully incite clients to bathe in Belgian design.  For more information about the project, please visit » www.conixarchitects.com/project CX - BATH SERIES LAI PRICEINTERIOR PROJECT UMICORE NOMINATED 10.09.2010After having won the ArchiZinc Trophee for Special Performance, our project Umicore has also obtained a nomination for the ‘Lensvelt de Architect Interieurprijs 2010’. This prestigious price for interior architecture is awarded for the 10th time for a project realized in the Netherlands or in Belgium. The theme of LAi 2010 is ‘Design Mindfulness’. Out of 76 submissions, the jury selected 6 projects (3 in Flanders and 3 in the Netherlands) that emphasize the importance of professional interior architecture. On November 25, after a visit of the jury to all nominated projects, the winning project will be announced during an awards ceremony in ‘De Bazel’ in Amsterdam.  The formal language of Umicore’s new office building, characterised by rigid volumes with a large clearness and openness, was also maintained in the interior.The project illustrates the importance of interior architecture to support and enhance a company’s identity. Functionality, aesthetics and durability go hand in hand in this daring project. All nominated projects can be found on the website of the LAi price. For more information about the project, please visit » www.conixarchitects.com/project UMICORE LOFTPROJECT HOOPNATIE FEATURED IN THE MOVIE 27.10.2008On the 27th of October 2008, one of our projects made its way onto the big screen. On this date, the movie ’Loft’ was released, the first feature film written by Bart De Pauw and Erik Van Looy. ’Loft’ describes the story of five friends who have a secret pact: they share a trendy loft in which they can discretely entertain their mistresses. It seems like a great arrangement until one morning they discover the naked body of a young woman. The group turns in on itself and it soon becomes clear that they know far less about each other than they had initially thought.  The outside scenes of loft used in the movie are in fact images of a building designed by Conix Architects, called ’Hoopnatie’. ’Hoopnatie’ is a mixed project including commercial spaces, apartments and offices, situated on the Schelde docks in Antwerp. The sharp, triangular angle of the building adds a strong, almost threatening character to the project. Erik Van Looy therefore considers the building as one of the main characters in the story line. We consider it as a great honor that one of our projects is featured in what is already the most successful Belgian movie of all times. For more information about the project, please visit » www.conixarchitects.com/project HOOPNATIE LONDON TOWER IPRESS CONFERENCE 20.11.2008“Het Eilandje” is a famous harbor area in Antwerp that has been greatly revalued during the past 10 years, making it one of the most dynamic places in the city.  Our project “London Tower” will drastically change the sight of this area. On the 11th of November 2008, we had the honor of presenting this project on a well-attended press conference. The London Tower will become the highest residential tower of Antwerp. The project engages in an architectural dialogue with the urban landscape and creates a strong visual identity for the Antwerp skyline. During the press conference, Dirk Van Mechelen, Flemish Minister for Finance and Budget and Town and Country Planning, expressed his enthusiasm for this project, saying that the “London Tower” has the potential of becoming a worthy north gate for the city of Antwerp: (in Dutch). The press conference also marked the start of the sale of apartments. For more information about the project, please visit . PUBLICATION GAZET VAN ANTWERPEN 11/05/2011, p.18+39, ‘Eilandje is meer dan MAS’ LONDON TOWER IIAWARDED ANP EDITOR’S PICK 02.2013This February, the acknowledged website Architecture News Plus awarded our project The Northgate with the title of ANP editor’s pick of the month.  The Northgate, located at the Noorderplaats in Antwerp, includes the development of a high-rise apartment tower alongside an office block. Conix Architects created the masterplan that sets out to change a suburb into a residential-business area by condensing and completing a series of sites. Inspired by the modernistic viewpoint of the city of Antwerp, the building functions structurally to determine a specific, well-defined streetscape, resulting in an obligatory and rigorous observance of the building line, which gives the envisaged construction a strong iconic character. Apart from the esthetic aspect of the building, also functional design criterions are met by adding a pedestrian overpass that links the building with Antwerp north. This overpass leads to an enclosed courtyard, where the flow of people and their work-life relationships create an inspiring atmosphere, which in turn served as the point of departure for designing the apartment tower. Adopting a no-nonsense approach, the tower is styled like a sculpture that diminishes as it increases in height, vacillating between static stability and dynamic vanity. Every floor contains seven apartments, each with a different design to cater for different types of tenants. For more information about the project, please visit » www.conixarchitects.com/project LONDON TOWER MARCHICAMED - NADORKING MOHAMMED VI GIVES GREEN LIGHT FOR CITY CENTER DEVELOPMENTAfter winning the prestigious competition in the light of the city center development in Nador, the Moroccan King himself praised Conix Architects for its design and officially initiated the start of the construction.  Nador, a port town in the northeast of Morocco, is situated in the administrative region called ‘l’Oriental’ and is adjacent to the Laguna of Marchica. The ambitious project to ‘redraw’ the city center of Nador is part of a far more extended vision that wishes to enhance the touristic and economic aspect of the total area that is enclosed by the Laguna of Marchica. The construction area can be divided in seven subzones, of which the zone formerly used as local airport will be redrawn by Conix Architects. The project contains among others the construction of a new mosque, a hospital, cultural and sportive centers and the ‘Medina’, a place for traditional and commercial services. Besides these rather architectural realizations, Conix Architects will also develop a mobility plan, that will connect the new city center with the existing city, and will assure the transition with the rural environment. This ambitious project further testifies to the international ambition of Conix Architects and constitutes an acknowledgement of our architectural approach, characterized by durable construction and by respect for ecological and cultural aspects. For more information about the project, please visit » www.conixarchitects.com/project MARCHICAMED - NADOR NEWSLETTER 01OFFICE BUILDING W16 30.06.2009In the beginning of this month, our office project ‘W16’ was delivered. The project comprises the renovation and extension of a unique office building, composed of 3 distinct parts. The main building, originally designed by Hugo Van Kuyck, situated on the Waterloolaan in Brussels and built in 1959, testifies to the period during which architecture mainly aimed to express progress. The ‘Bâtiment de l’Horloge’ is situated at the rear of the complex and was constructed in 1905. Between these 2 buildings with very distinct identities, a new volume is constructed which links the buildings and unifies them. The new façade is the eye-catcher of the project. The twisted glass plates create a refined vertical level that softens the building in its context. In this way, it forms a fragmented resting point, dominated by a continuous flow of urban movement on the side. Would you like us to keep you informed about the latest updates, please send us a mail to receive our newsletter. » pr@conixarchitects.com NEWSLETTER 02CONIX ARCHITECTS DESIGNS AFFORDABLE HOUSING 15.09.2009During the last decencies, the available budget for private houses has radically changed. Singles, the elderly as well as families are in search of qualitative, affordable housing. Our architectural office considers it a great challenge to take this into account during the design process. Thanks to our experience, we know that daring to set priorities, making thoughtful choices and handling spaces, techniques and materials in a creative way all make it possible to achieve more with a limited budget. Would you like us to keep you informed about the latest updates, please send us a mail to receive our newsletter. » pr@conixarchitects.com NEWSLETTER 03FACELIFT UMICORE BY CONIX ARCHITECTS 16.10.2009With a positive feeling Conix Architects looks back upon the summer of 2009. In the beginning of July, our prestigious project ‘Umicore’ was delivered. On the 25th of September the project the project was officially inaugurated by Umicore's president Thomas Leysen and by the Flemish Minister-President Kris Peeters. ... Would you like us to keep you informed about the latest updates, please send us a mail to receive our newsletter. » pr@conixarchitects.com NEWSLETTER 04CONIX "INTERIOR" ARCHITECTS 16.12.2009Strong architecture starts from a global vision. Therefore Conix Architects consciously adopts an integrated approach in which context, architecture and interior design form one harmonious unity. Thanks to our extensive team of interior architects and designers, we are able to offer a total concept approach for each of our projects. ... Would you like us to keep you informed about the latest updates, please send us a mail to receive our newsletter. » pr@conixarchitects.com NEWSLETTER 05CONIX ARCHITECTS BUILDS TO THE MEASURE OF PEOPLE 09.03.2010As architects it is our social duty to create a qualitative habitat for the present and future generations. Creating spaces where people feel good day to day, integrating these spaces within their environment in an harmonious balance, …: the habitat is the essence of architecture. Therefore Conix Architects remains passionate about building and renovating private houses. ... Would you like us to keep you informed about the latest updates, please send us a mail to receive our newsletter. » pr@conixarchitects.com NEWSLETTER 06BELGIAN EU PAVILION READY FOR OPENING EXPO 2010 IN SHANGHAI 28.04.2010Less than one year after having won the competition, the Belgian EU pavilion is finished and ready to welcome the 70 million expected visitors of the Expo 2010 in Shanghai, that will officially open on the 1st of May. ... Would you like us to keep you informed about the latest updates, please send us a mail to receive our newsletter. » pr@conixarchitects.com NEWSLETTER 07CONIX ARCHITECTURE FOR A SUSTAINABLE WORLD 26.08.2010Maintaining a healthy climate is the greatest challenge of the 21st century. As architects we play an important role in this matter. As indicated by our mission “Guided by emotions, inspired by beauty and creativity, supported by knowhow, sustainability and context” sustainable construction is an essential part in the strategy of Conix Architects .... Would you like us to keep you informed about the latest updates, please send us a mail to receive our newsletter. » pr@conixarchitects.com NEWSLETTER 08CONIX ARCHITECTS ALSO VERY ACTIVE IN BRUSSELS 23.11.2010Since its establishment, Conix Architects has had an important connection with the city of Antwerp. Nonetheless, our architectural firm is also very active in Brussels. Currently a number of projects in Brussels are in execution and several projects were recently delivered. The reconversion and redevelopment of existing office buildings, the extension of social housing, an increased urban densification, overcoming the taboo on high-rise buildings and the redevelopment of public space are the most important challenges for Brussels. Our team in the Van Meyelstraat looks forward to continue realising our ambition in Brussels and its surroundings! Would you like us to keep you informed about the latest updates, please send us a mail to receive our newsletter. » pr@conixarchitects.com NEWSLETTER 09CONIX ARCHITECTS REDEVELOPS MARITIME SITE OOSTEROEVER 07.07.2011In May 2011, we had the honour to present our prestigious project ‘Oosteroever’ in Ostend to the press. With this prestigious project, Conix Architects designs the largest development in years on the Belgian coast. The total surface above-ground is 120.000 m², resulting in 1.200 apartments. The combination of the unique maritime location and daring architecture, will transform Oosteroever into a new dynamic pole of attraction on a stone’s throw from the centre of Ostend. Would you like us to keep you informed about the latest updates, please send us a mail to receive our newsletter. » pr@conixarchitects.com OCEAN’S FOURROOF TOPPING IN GDANSK 29.04.2011 On the 29th of April 2011, a roof topping ceremony for one of the towers of the project ‘Ocean’s Four’ was held in Gdansk, Poland. Ocean’s Four is a project of BPI-CFE, consisting of four 18-storey residential towers. The project was designed by Conix Architects and the local architect Pomorskie Biuro Projektowe GEL. We conceived the design of the façades of the towers and provided aesthetical advice for the entire project.  In this project were inspired by existing elements of the surroundings, characterized by an urban density in the proximity of the ocean. Our basis concept was to create a visible differentiation between the 4 towers, using a different rhythm of materials and window openings. The continuous element of perforated skin which passes through all towers on variable height maintains one identity for the volumes. The extra cubic volume consisting of perimeter terraces on the top of each tower offers spectacular views. Terraces with greenery are the translation of the dialog between urbanization and nature.  In order to avoid the effect of a mass wall, chameleon panels are used on the visible façade from the main street. Their color varies together with the point of observation. In this way, the building acts a chameleon in relation to its surroundings. The completion of stage I of the project has been planned for the last quarter of 2011. For more information about the project, please visit » www.conixarchitects.com/project OCEAN’S FOUR OOSTEROEVER IPRESS CONFERENCE 19.05.2011On the 19th of May 2011, we had the honour to present our project ‘Oosteroever’ in Ostend to the press.  In the light of the urban renewal plans of the city of Ostend, two competitions were launched by the AGSO to select a private partner for the full reconversion and development of a new multifunctional city part on the maritime site Oosteroever. Versluys Bouwgroep and CFE, in collaboration with Conix Architects, won both competitions. With this prestigious project, Conix Architects designs the largest development in years on the Belgian coast. The total surface above-ground is 120.000 m², resulting in 1.200 apartments. The combination of the unique maritime location and daring architecture, will make it a new dynamic pole of attraction of Ostend. The first tower, ‘named Baelskaai 12’, will be an icon, meant to breathe new life into the area. It will contain a commercial ground floor and 49 apartments, each with spacious terraces offering exciting views on the surroundings. In dialogue with the adjacent buildings, the composition of the façade starts rather sober and becomes more dynamic as it increases in height. Our aim is to make a statement on this unique location and take a new step in the conversion of Oosteroever into a worthy city part. The water no longer acts as the edge of the city, but as the center of the new dynamic area. For more information about the project, please visit (more info starting from 01/08/2011) PUBLICATION DE MORGEN 21/05/2011, p. 7, ‘Oostende krijgt nieuwe skyline op Oosteroever’ PUBLICATION HET LAATSTE NIEUWS20/05/2011, ‘Verloederd havengebied wordt trendy woonbuurt’ » download article PUBLICATION DE TIJD20/5/2011, p. 8, ‘Oostende renoveert haven’ » download article OOSTEROEVER IISECOND CONSTRUCTION LICENSE OBTAINED 29.11.2012Whereas the first construction license of the project Victoria, situated at Fortstraat-Victorialaan in Ostend, already was obtained in October, the second license of the project Baelskaai 12, was also ratified in November this month. Both constructions are part of the project Oosteroever, one of the most ambitious and promising developments in years on the Belgian coast.  With a surface of 120.000 m² above-ground, resulting in 1.200 apartments of which 90% with a sea view, this qualitative residential development will transform the eastern part of Ostend. Through the combination of the unique maritime location and daring architecture, it will become the new pole of attraction of the mid-coast in the years to come. With project Oosteroever, Conix Architects makes a statement on this unique location and takes a new step in the conversion of Oosteroever into a worthy city part. For more information about the project, please visit » www.conixarchitects.com/project OOSTEROEVER PEPINPROJECT DELIVERED 02.2012In September 2012, our project ‘Pépin – Faubourg d’Egmont’ was delivered. The project, developed in close collaboration with Guillaume Kervyn, contains the construction of apartments, a penthouse and an exposition room. Taking into account the principles of sustainable construction, the project became the laureate in the project group of sustainable exemplary buildings of the IBGE-BIM (the Brussels Institute for environmental management) in 2008.  The ground floor serves both as the entrance hall to the apartments as well as an exposition room, which can be rented and used as an office space for the contractor. Throughout the development of the ground floor, the concept of transparency was always kept in mind, resulting in a broadening and see-through effect. The apartments, residing at the uppers levels, consist of two to four bedrooms and are equipped with a protruding an cosy terrace, creating visual relations between the various protruding levels and thus stimulating the interaction between the different apartments. The façade was built by using mainly copper and glass. The upper levels, finally, are reserved for the contractor’s private apartment, offering a stunning view on the city below. The mainly glazed façade has hanging gardens and a closed volume for the contractor’s studio. In 2008 the project was praised for its low energy consumption and the apartments were officially acknowledged as a passive buildings, due to their consistency with the principles of sustainable construction. In this way, Conix Architects contributes to an optimal development of economic and environmental factors, and further manifests itself as an advocate of sustainable architecture. For more information about the project, please visit » www.conixarchitects.com/project PEPIN REGATTAFIRST CNX APARTMENTS DELIVERED 11.2012Regatta, one of Belgium’s most promising and ambitious residential project in years, presents the first so called CNX apartments created by Conix Architects. Situated at Antwerp’s ‘Linkeroever’ near the recreational water basin ‘Het Galgenweel’, this new town offers 280 00 m² of new construction area, leading to the creation of 450 houses and 1100 apartments within the next ten years.  Main contractor Vooruitzicht appeals to several acknowledged architects, amongst whom Conix Architects, to develop and shape this city within the city. During the first phase of the project, Conix Architects is responsible for the construction of an underground parking, 102 apartments, office and commercial areas and the design of a semi-public square, spread out over a total surface of 13 126 m². This specific zone is a key-site near the Blancefloerlaan, where mixed functions (living-commercial space-horeca) are integrated. Conix Architects divided the design of the apartments into a night and day area, whereby the living spaces have a view on both façades. The covered terrace on one side is faced towards the water on the south, and the other side offers a view on the greenery in front of the side, called the ‘Middenvijver’. Moreover, in order to create the best views and less shadowed zones, inclining roofs will be linked to the orientation of the sun. Throughout the project, sustainability will never be lost out of sight. To achieve the smallest footprint possible, the covered terraces orientated to the south will serve as a constructive sunscreens, bricks will be used for the façades and the roof is will be covered with vegetation. For more information about the project, please visit » www.conixarchitects.com/project REGATTA SILVER MUSEUMPRESS CONFERENCE 21.09.2009With a history going back to the 13th century, ‘the Zilvermuseum’ is a unique building situated in a green area at the border of Antwerp (Deurne). In 2006, the Province of Antwerp judged that the building was in need of a thorough restoration and renovation and Conix Architects took on the challenge to start with an analysis of the site and building to come to a final master plan and is now finishing the preliminary design.  After restoring the qualities of the current building by a thorough restoration by Steenmeijer Architecten, Conix Architects will start with the renovation of this unique building. In our concept, the subordination of the new elements to the existing building and the creation of a dialogue between the beautiful garden and inner courtyard were the guiding principles. Moreover, the used materials will directly refer to the identity of the museum. Apart from the optimization of the visibility of the entrance, the accessibility of the museum route will be enhanced through the creation of a new circulation glass axis containing a spacious staircase and elevator. In order to attain a logical structure in the museum structure, the different functions of the museum will be regrouped into clusters. We already look forward to starting the construction of this unique project in 2012. For more information about the project, please visit PUBLICATION GAZET VAN ANTWERPEN 09/2009, p. 67, ’Sterckshof ondergaat zilveren renovatie’ SKYLINE BILZEN IWINNING COMPETITION DESIGN 13.12.2011In 2011 Skyline Limburg launched a competition for the new construction of apartments, located in the Sint-Lambertuslaan in Bilzen. In December Conix Architects won the competition. The specific preconditions of the site increased the need for a context-based design. The need for a solid wall, opposite the adjacent railway and tunnel, is translated architecturally in the use of massive bricks for the exterior side of the volumes. In the green inner courtyard the façades create a more intimate character.  On the corner where the Sint-Lambertuslaan takes a bend where the new tunnel will be constructed, a volume with the maximum building levels and spacious corner terraces serves as a recognition point within the site and its surroundings. The volumes on the Sint-Lambertuslaan are more open towards the open spaces opposite the street. In this way, the traffic-free inner courtyard is integrated in the environment. The entrance and living space oriented towards the inner courtyard create views and liveliness on the site. Our ambition for this unique project is to create qualitative, expressive architecture that provides an adequate answer to the specificity of the site. Particular attention is paid to the experience in the apartments and their relation to the surroundings, by avoiding unnecessary hardening of the terrain and by creating a vivid green courtyard. For more information about the project, please visit » www.conixarchitects.com/project SKYLINE EUROPE BILZEN SKYLINE BILZEN IICONSTRUCTION LICENSE OBTAINEDThe construction of new apartments, located in the Sint-lambertuslaan in Bilzen, enters a new phase since the official confirmation of the construction license. In December 2011 Conix Architects won the competition design, launched by Skyline Limburg.  Conix Architects was praised for its expressive and qualitative architecture that provides an adequate answers to the specific needs of the site. In particular, attention is paid to the experience in the apartments and their relation to the surroundings, by avoiding unnecessary hardening of the terrain and by creating a vivid green courtyard. For more information about the project, please visit » www.conixarchitects.com/project SKYLINE EUROPE BILZEN SKYLINE TONGERENWINNING COMPETITION DESIGN 12.03.2012In 2012 the city of Tongeren launched a competition for the masterplanning and new residential development in Heurkensberg. Conix Architects entered the competition with developer Skyline Limburg and was granted the assignment. The project comprises houses and apartments, part of which are developed as social housing. The masterplan is based on ancient Roman towns and consist of parallel streets and squared building parcels. An optimal use of the site is combined with a human scale for the building blocks. This grid is in turn made less rigid with more variation and interesting sights.  A green corridor links the higher and lower part of the site. The communal green area on the corners of the terrain and the houses with private gardens on the other parts guarantee a green atmosphere. Because of the large slope of the terrain, the hydraulic works require specific attention. To preserve the lower part of the terrain, wadis are implanted in the green corridor. On the lowest part of the site a natural pond serves as an additional buffer. The street pattern contains a certain hierarchy. Pedestrians and cyclists can use several cut-offs in the green corridor, while motorized traffic follows the rigid checkerboard pattern. The small scale of the volumes fits in naturally in its surroundings. In order to offer housing for a large audience, the houses differ in typology and size. This creates an alternating street view, while at the same time a unified architectural language is preserved. For more information about the project, please visit » www.conixarchitects.com/project SKYLINE EUROPE TONGEREN TILIA’S GARDENSPROJECT DELIVEREDSituated next to a former FIAT garage in Oudergem on the site of “Zusters van Liefde”, the project ‘Bouygues’ comprises the construction of three building blocks with a total of 188 apartments. A new sports hall will be build, serving as a counterweight for the reconverted and used green area.  The two big L-shaped blocks will take into account the current context: on the Invalidenlaan, there are five levels that gradually decrease in height as one approaches the omega court apartments and the André Drouartstraat, where construction is small-scale. Furthermore, the semi-public inner area is opened diagonally to the roundabout, in order to guarantee the transparency and clarity of the complex. The smaller building block demarcates the sports track and has a smaller private inner area. Underneath all blocks, underground parking will be foreseen. For more information about the project, please visit » www.conixarchitects.com/project TILIA’S GARDENS UMICOREDELIVERED PROJECT 26.06.2009In order to promote their new corporate identity, Umicore asked us to restructure their complex company plant in Hoboken (in the south of Antwerp). After determining the strengths and weaknesses of the terrain, a master plan was drawn up. The new office building becomes the eye-catcher, encapsulating and generating the company’s new corporate identity. The building is unrestrained in design in contrast to the monotonous and randomly selected surroundings.  The powerful, high-tech look and feel creates an innovative image, thus modernizing the company. After the delivery of the project this summer, Umicore will be ready to face the 21st century as a dynamic and innovating company. For more information about the project, please visit PUBLICATION PROJECT & INTERIEUR 03-04/2010, p. 24-27, ‘Signaalgebouw aan de Schelde’ PUBLICATION GEVELBOUW12/2009, p. 14-19, ‘Closing the loop’ » download article VUBPRESS CONFERENCE 29.03.2013On Friday the 29th of March 2013, we had the honour to present our VUB-project to the press. Previously, the Vrije Universiteit Brussel launched an ambitious architectural competition in order to become Belgium’s most sustainable, ecological, qualitative and future-minded campus. Conix Architects ended up winning the contest , together with Group Talboom, 3E, OCB, Venac and Dirk Vandekerkhove Landschapsarchitecten.  Praised for its intelligent and refined approach, the design and concept of Conix Architects will transform the current VUB-campus into a cluster of buildings with various functions, situated alongside the Triomflaan, that will strengthen the inherent qualities of the open and green campus. This entirely renewed complex will entail 650 student rooms, brand new auditoriums and research areas, a council chamber, public facilities and culture infrastructure. The versatility of the design creates an integral campus characterized by both unity as well as diversity.  The new student accommodation, an impressive and elongated building complex, will be built on the outside borders of the campus, allowing in this way to reinforce the urban character of the site alongside the Triomflaan, but at the same time also to protect the open, green and central campus from within. However, the transparency and the interconnectivity between the city and the campus will be remained at all times by an intriguing volume play and by interceding the linearity with a wide and green avenue that reaches deep into the heart of the campus.  Two landmarks, functioning as some kind of beacon, will highlight the transition and the accessibility from the urban outside world to the university. First, a cultural tower, known as the ‘Kultuurkaffee’, will be given a prominent place adjacent to the Triomflaan, inviting students and outsiders to participate in cultural activities. Second, a research tower, rather positioned on campus, reflects the research and academic culture of the university. With this concept, Conix Architects succeeds in further developing the VUB-campus as a vibrant community within Brussels, capital of Belgium and Europe, where a diversity of cultures, languages and people interact. The new VUB-site will be regarded as one of a kind, where students can benefit from high quality education and live in trendy and comfortable student rooms, located at an open, flexible and sustainable campus with an international appearance. For more information about the project, please visit: » Webiste VUB » www.conixarchitects.com/project VUB W16PROJECT DELIVERED 04.05.2009In May 2009, our project ‘W16’ was delivered. It concerns the renovation and extension of an office building situated in the upper class trade quarter of the avenue Waterloo, besides the Brussels small ring road.  The building was designed in 1958 by architect Hugo Van Kuyck for the SNCI and has architectural characteristics which testify to the period in which it was built. The new façade is the eye-catcher of the project. By using twisted glass plates, a refined vertical level is created that makes the building less imposing. The combination of our contemporary architecture with the existing style has succeeded in breathing new life into this unique building. For more information about the project, please visit » www.conixarchitects.com/project W16 XIE XIE SHANGHAIPOST EXPO ABOUT WORLD EXPO 2010 SHANGHAI 30.03.2011On the 30th of March, the exposition “From Brussels, Xiè Xiè Shanghai” was officially opened. The exhibition is an initiative of the Brussels-Capital Region along with Ministers Jean-Luc Vanraes and Benoît Cerexhe, wishing to share the success of the Belgian EU pavilion at the Expo 2010 in Shanghai and to offer it to the largely cosmopolitan audience represented by the European capital.  The World Expo in Shanghai had a record attendance of more than 73 million visitors, a flurry of Heads of State and Heads of Government and a series of breathtaking activities and shows. This unprecedented exhibition witnessed the participation of 246 nations and international organizations. The theme “Better city, Better life” was resolutely geared towards the future and sustainable development. Within the Belgian pavilion, the Brussels-Capital Region demonstrated its dynamism and savoir-faire by pairing high-performance technology with its considerable scientific, cultural, academic, and economic heritage. This Brussels expertise will be therefore proudly displayed from 30 March to 31 May at Tour & Taxis (Brussels) as a symbolic way to say Xie Xie – Merci – Dank u – Thank you to Shanghai. The entrance is free. For more information, please visit . | |||
This website uses Adobe Flash Player.Get the Player and return when finished installing. | ||||||