We renovated the theatre and library tower of the Antwerp arts campus deSingel in Antwerp, one of Léon Stynen's major achievements. Respect for the architectural heritage values and detailing of the iconic building was paramount.

Assignment

the study and renovation of the damage to the concrete skin,
an integral roof renovation
the integral study of energetic improvement of the outer skin

The building

The 2nd construction phase of the Stynen building section was designed in the 1960s and constructed between 1972 and 1980.

All roofs are constructed as a cold ventilated roof, the walls are full concrete, clad inside with polyurethane foam panels. The flat roofs have a concrete balustrade (+/- 1.8 metres high). There are several concrete structures on the roofs. Originally, the roofs were covered with bitumen roofing and loaded with concrete terrace tiles. In 1990 and 1992, the roof was renovated for the first time.

The facade showed a lot of concrete rot in the late 1980s. In the early 1990s, the façade was treated against it and painted. Here and there, the façade shows new cracks and the whole tower needs to be repainted.

Building physics analysis building envelope

The study and design assignment for the renovation of the outer skin of the theatre tower of arts campus deSingel includes the study:

architecture,
building physics,
structural engineering,
stability,
techniques,
EPB
safety coordination.

Renovation scenarios

The building physics analysis of the building envelope provides the client with the necessary tools to make reasoned choices for the renovation of the outer skin of the stage tower.

The thermal performance of the building envelope is calculated using specialised software, and checked against a thermographic study. Cold bridges and other areas of concern are thus further identified.

The risks of structural damage to the building envelope, such as internal condensation, mould growth and frost damage, are further investigated.

103748064 3393138047385169 7741409340415213140 o 3537

Renovation supervision

the preparation of the tender dossier
organisation and handling of the award procedure;
technical and administrative management and monitoring of the execution up to and including delivery
financial monitoring and general coordination of the work.

"Through targeted interventions, we extended the life of the building and prepared the arts campus for the next period of use. Being able to work together as a team to perpetuate the iconic building and its use gave us particular satisfaction" dixit concrete specialist ir. arch. Stéphanie Van Goethem.

Read the article