Harbour House Antwerp

The Challenge

The Antwerp Port Authority (APA) sought to create a new headquarters that would reflect the city’s maritime heritage and future ambitions. The project, designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, involved combining a striking new beam-shaped structure with the restoration of a historic former fire station—a listed building. The challenge was to integrate cutting-edge architecture with heritage preservation, all within a prominent urban and port-side setting.

The Solution

Strategically located between Antwerp’s city center and its iconic harbor, the new Port House offers panoramic views through its transparent, diamond-inspired façade—an homage to the city’s renowned diamond trade. Tractebel supported the project through its various development stages, beginning with the construction of underground parking, followed by the careful gutting and restoration of the historic fire station. The final phase focused on the installation of the new structure, elegantly perched on three sculptural concrete pillars, seamlessly blending old and new.

The Impact

The Antwerp Port House now stands as a landmark of architectural innovation and urban regeneration. It not only provides a modern, functional workspace for the Port Authority but also preserves and enhances a piece of the city’s architectural heritage. With its bold design and symbolic location, the building has become a new icon for Antwerp and a testament to Tractebel’s ability to deliver complex, multidisciplinary projects with cultural and technical sensitivity.