VK services
- Structural Engineering
technical data
- client
- Center of Contemporary Art Wiels npa
- architect
- Art & Build
- surface
- 5,800 m2
- date
- start of project: 2004
- finished in: 2008
- location
- Vorst, Belgium
wiels art centre
renovation and transformation of former brewery to centre of contemporary arts
The former Wielemans-Ceuppens brewery, a protected monument site, has been given a new identity. Thus, a portion of the site is occupied by the Van Volxem office project. The brewery itself, a modernist building from 1930, was transformed into the Wiels Centre for Contemporary Art. VK carried out the structural engineering of this restoration project.
The restoration took place in 2 phases. First the exterior was tackled with a thorough renovation of the façade. Subsequently, the inside was dealt with and the spaces adapted to their new purpose. The building has 3 levels with exhibition space, artists' studios and offices. A cafeteria on the ground floor is decorated with 3 original brew kettles, a link to the past. A rooftop terrace offers a beautiful view of the site and Brussels.
The transformation of the former industrial site is part of a government program that should revitalise the surrounding district. Wiels wishes to place Brussels on the map as a centre for contemporary art. It has already gained a place on the national art scene, with exhibits including Luc Tuymans, world renowned Belgian artist.


