Groupe Structures/Rotor/CONIX RDBM Architects

The Phillips Tower, constructed in 1969 as the company’s headquarters, sparked much debate due to its location within the historical fabric of the lower city. It was notable at the time for its state-of-the-art locally-produced steel construction elements and curtain walls. Although some consider the tower an eye-sore and would like it to be demolished, this would simply mean to deny its existing qualities. Such an approach has led all the way back to the creation of the famed Boulevard Anspach and Place De Brouckere in place of poorer productive neighbourhoods linked to the Senne river. The Multi building is therefore currently being carefully dismantled and stripped of reusable materials before transformation in order to preserve its legacy. The guided tour will focus on its current state of in-between, neither ruin nor project, and the specificities of the deconstruction initiative.

Laureate be.exemplary 2017.