Client: Befimmo S.A.
Architects: Jaspers & Eyers / 51N4E / AUC
Completion: 2023
Photographer: Philippe van Gelooven
With the ZIN project, an innovative building complex was developed in the northern part of Brussels. On the site of the former World Trade Center Towers 1 and 2, a multifunctional ensemble with approximately 110,000 square metres of floor space was created. It combines offices, co-working spaces, apartments, hotel facilities, restaurants, and retail functions under one roof.
A key objective of the project was the implementation of circular economy principles in construction. During the planning phase, materials from the existing buildings were systematically identified and assessed. Approximately 95% of the construction waste was retained on site, recycled, or reused elsewhere, including up to 30,000 tonnes of reclaimed concrete. The symbolic foundation stone was also made from recycled concrete and received the Cradle to Cradle® Silver certification.
The building was designed and constructed with a strong focus on circularity and resource efficiency. It demonstrates an approach for advancing urban redevelopment projects through the integration of circular economy principles. The building's name, Marie-Elisabeth Belpaire, commemorates the Flemish writer and education advocate who promoted girls’ education during the 19th century.
