Solidaris

TYPE: Workplace​
LOCATION: Brussels​
SIZE: 9818 m²​
STATUS: Under Construction

In early 2021, ncbham was invited by Thomas & Piron to participate in a competition focused on renovating the new headquarters of Solidaris in Charleroi. Working in collaboration with Atelier d’Arbre d’Or, who were responsible for the architectural interventions, the team crafted a project that stood out and that was officially announced as the winning proposal in November of the same year. The construction started in 2022 and is foreseen to finish by July 2024.

Work in progress

The building in question was a landmark in the city of Charleroi, built in 1971, it served as a hotel and as headquarters of BNP until 2016. The construction features some innovative techniques that help reduce the structural elements and help generate impressive spaces on double or triple height, maximizing the influx of natural light.

Architectural guidelines involving the façade renovation and structural principles:

The strategy for both the architectural and interior design revolved around two principal concepts: firstly, identifying the DNA of the existing building as it stands within the urban landscape of Charleroi, and secondly, generating a fresh architectural identity for Solidaris.

Interior design guidelines involving space & light optimization:

The interior was thoroughly analysed to ensure its functionality as a modern office building, considering current standards of comfort and ergonomics.

While preserving and highlighting its primary and most remarkable features, modifications were made by strategically adding to or subtracting parts of the existing structure in order to optimize both functionality and visual impact.

The new semi-open spaces with duplexes, echo the unique features of the existing building while preserving its authenticity. The proposed transformation is that of a transparent building in dialogue with the outside, naturally reflecting the identity and new image of Solidaris.

The ground floor, hosting the reception area and a coworking cafeteria and the mezzanine, designed for meeting rooms and seminars are connected through a wooden staircase visible and directly accessible upon entering the building.

Look & Feel and Signage

The signage and identity of the new Solidaris headquarters draws inspiration from Charleroi’s iconic architectural elements, such as the renovated old factories, characteristic metal structures, and urban geometric shapes. The goal was to create a space that transcends its basic office function and becomes a symbol of Solidaris’s commitment to the community and its connection to the city that houses it.

The Solidaris logo served as a source of inspiration for material accents throughout the design. This red mesh symbolizes the core values of solidarity and mutual support, themes central to Solidaris’s identity. Echoing this motif, textures distributed in informal spaces subtly incorporate the weaving pattern.

The design’s general palette highlights the building’s structural elements, creating a natural and cozy ambiance. This is achieved through a balanced mix of light, and raw materials like concrete, wood, and glass, combining industrial simplicity with warm, inviting tones and accent colors.