The Belgium Pavilion at Dubai Expo 2020. Photo: Vincent Callebaut Architectures.
Architecture that breathes life into design TEXT: KATE HARVEY
Introduction Smart, green buildings with a focus on human warmth – the philosophy of Assar Architects speaks for itself. Operating from Brussels, one might say that they have defined the architectural landscape across Belgium, with an impressive portfolio of projects that seamlessly tie cities together.
A collaborative work ethic The firm is a cooperative by name and by nature: “We’re an ASSociation of ARchitects,” explains CEO and senior partner, Renaud Chevalier. “That means we delegate projects to an office of over 140 architects, all of whom harness different skills and expertise.” As one of the largest Belgian architect firms, it can take on large-scale projects 14 | Issue 70 | October 2019
across a variety of sectors; often going above and beyond the fundamentals of design.
Reinterpreting urban landscapes For each proposal, Assar listens and responds to the specific needs of urban areas. “The architecture of a city is not a uniform concept. There are multiple entities, both old and new, that need to work together harmoniously. This is fundamental to our principles,” explains Renaud Chevalier. For example, Assar is actively repurposing a number of commercial and residential areas across Brussels, one of which is being redeveloped into a multipurpose building to include housing, office space and a shopping precinct.
“We’re effectively reimagining the architecture of shopping centres built in the 1960s. For this project in particular, we’re aiming to create a space that connects the street with the interior to reinvigorate them,” says Renaud Chevalier. Its architecture is by no means function without form. The Möbius Towers I & II in Brussels are a fine example of Assar’s sculptural elegance. Integrated into the cityscape, they have also been well optimised from an ecological point of view.
Redefining the workplace Assar Architects has positively addressed design in the workplace across Belgium, including PwC’s offices in Diegem. Biophilic and ergonomic design are high on their agenda, and have been de-