The Théâtre des Variétés in Brussels is being transformed into a cultural centre focused on civic participation. The revamped theatre will have a large 17-metre-high auditorium with a capacity of about 500 seats, a smaller auditorium, a forum and a café.

With this transformation, the Théâtre des Variétés aims to become a dynamic meeting place for culture and civic participation in the heart of Brussels.

Renovation

The original theatre, designed by Victor Bourgeois in 1937, is being transformed while retaining its heritage features, such as the monumental façade on Mechelsestraat and other original elements.

A central aspect of the design is the creation of a large forum, an open space that acts as a covered street and square, open to the public and intended for meetings and discussions. This forum is lit by a large light shaft, created from the former stage tower, which brings natural light deep into the building. The large theatre auditorium will be placed above the entrance hall, while a smaller auditorium will be located below the forum. This layout preserves the impressive central volume of the original theatre and enhances the public function of the building.

As executive architects, we help the designing architects with all technical and financial issues, so that they can fully focus on the design. We also monitor the implementation and ensure that the objectives and plan are always crystal clear for all partners, so that together we can make our dreams come true.

Our EPB specialists are also on hand.

Flores Prats with Ouest Architecture Theatre des Varietes in Brussels IMG 19 Teatre ciutat

Fire safety

Our comprehensive fire safety study balances the new future of this iconic building with meeting the highest contemporary safety standards.

The building, part heritage listed, is being redeveloped into a complex with two new theatres, a multipurpose room, a bar, artists' lodges and offices. The existing structure and heritage elements, such as the listed facade and atrium tower, require a careful approach to ensure fire safety without compromising the building's character.

Regulations

Evacuation and compartmentalisation: The building will be divided into fire compartments with strategically placed evacuation routes. A specific evacuation study was carried out to optimise safe and efficient exit from the building in case of emergency.
Atrium and smoke control: The existing atrium structure will be retained and equipped with a sophisticated smoke extraction and sprinkler system.
Materials and fire response: Where possible, existing structures will be adapted to meet fire response specifications without compromising heritage value.
Accessibility for emergency services: The building will remain accessible via both Rue de Malines and Rue Saint-Pierre, with clear fire service entrances and control points.

Innovative solutions and future vision

The fire safety approach combines innovative techniques with respect for heritage. By using adapted sprinkler systems, strategic compartmentalisation and smoke control, the Théâtre des Variétés becomes not only a cultural centre of the future, but also a safe and sustainable building.

This study demonstrates our commitment to repurposing historic buildings in a contemporary way that combines safety, functionality and heritage conservation.

Our project team

From Team Fire (1)

ir. arch. Julie Janssens

Project architect

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From Team Architecture (French-speaking) (1)

ir. arch. Guillaume Paturel

Project architect

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From Team Sustainability, Energy & Comfort (2)

ir. arch. Katrien Van Lierop

Energy and sustainability advisor

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ir. arch. Robbe Verelst

Energy and sustainability advisor
Building physics engineer

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Can our fire specialists help you?

Fire safety is a serious matter. Whether it is your home, a public building or business premises, our specialists will make sure your fire safety is not taken for a ride.

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