Zaha Hadid Architects Completes Antwerp's New Port House
Doing justice to the “City of Diamonds.”
Repurposing a derelict fire station, Zaha Hadid Architects has inaugurated a central headquarters for 500 port staff that previously worked in separate locations around the city. The building takes the form of an elevated extension, designed to float above it. Assuming the form of a ship’s bow, the new structure points towards the Scheldt river. Taking the city’s reputation as the “City of Diamonds” to heart, the building features a faceted glazed façade that reflects the changing tones and colors of the city’s sky. The alternation of transparent and opaque panels affords panoramic views of the Scheldt. The central courtyard is enclosed with a glass roof, providing visitors access to the historic public reading room and library within the restored fire truck hall.
