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National Bank of Belgium - 2011
National Bank of Belgium : construction of a roof Client : National Bank of Belgium Status : competition Team : AgwA + RFR, Kahle, Boydens, Delta GC, GBAr The aim of the new roof is to improve the quality of the existing interior spaces, while respecting the nature, the interest and the architecture of the existing building. The glazing is replaced by ETFE balloons, which is extremely transparent and allows to cover large surfaces without any sub-structures or frames. Without the glazing joints of a traditional glazing system, the new structure becomes nearly invisible. The vertical façades are slightly raised in order to enable a natural ventilation of the courtyard, minimising mechanical ventilation and solar control. The rotating glass panels form a long peristyle, reminding of the colonnade which marks the building. The glazed vault of the hall is no longer suspended by the façades. This enables to avoid transmitting the horizontal efforts to the existing building and establishes an intriguing relationship between the two roofs. |