The BNP Paribas headquarters "Montagne du Parc" is the result of a competition won by Baumschlager Eberle Architects with their partner Styfhals Architects. Jaspers-Eyers architects were added to the implementation team. The new building replaces a functionally and energetically questionable old building. The main measures related to the management of the area of 1008,000 m² for 4,100 employees in the context of urban development, integration into urban life and the reduction of energy consumption. Such parameters were binding in order to gain acceptance by the city of Brussels, but above all they were the genuine objective in the work of the architects. The result presents itself as a town house with a façade whose surface has been fanned out by 300 columns.
The idea of the townhouse for "Montagne du Parc" was taken from the past and its integration optimised for the present. An essential moment of European urban design was used for this - the arcade. This covered public open space opens the entrance to the shops and restaurant in the HQ with 2.200 m² GFA. In the spatial flow of the building, there is a seamless transition to the spacious inner courtyard. This is also freely accessible so that the entire complex can be traversed. Vertically, a public lift in the building helps to overcome the 12 metres between the lower and upper city of Brussels. Public access to the green roof terrace is also planned. Overall, the synthesis between the public and the working world has been achieved at a very high level.
We are happy with a building which stands for sustainability in large scale. 108.000 m² GFA consume per square meter 15 kWH/m²/a for heating and cooling. The renowned BREEAM “excellent” label marks the success of the concept. The result is the peak of a comprehensive concept. Efficient recycling-economy was drawn from the former building on the site: 100.000 t debris of demolition, 450 MW thermal capacity within the STES. This is an innovative system (seasonal thermal engery storage) for cooling and heating by using the water tanks of the old building. PV panels of 5.500 m2 within the green roof support the reduction.
Awards: MIPIM Award 2022, Austrian Green Planet Building Award 2023, International Property award…
The entire concept proofed to be efficient. 15 kWH/m²/a is a convincing number. A rather unique method of climatization was found by the architects with the STES (seasonal thermal engery storage). Water tanks in the existing basement effectively reduce the primary energy demand together with PV panels of 5.500 m2 size. Also innovative is the external load bearing structure with an esthetic function that on one hand tames the building compact volume, on the other hand no additional interior columns were needed to create a convincing space flow inside. An ecological unique façade construction with non-linear pattern was invented and achieved with re-used wooden formwork modules. Beside these ecological aspects “Montagne du Parc” has proved to be accepted in Brussels.
„Our new building is the perfect symbol of our mission: building a positive future together. Designed to evolve over time and featuring state-of-the-art technology, it is above all a model of sustainability. A special place, set in the heart of Brussels and rooted in the local community, it creates the ideal working environment for our staff." Max Jadot, CEO of BNP Paribas Fortis
On the foundation of a clear attitude that can be described as authentic, methodical and poetic, Baumschlager Eberle Architekten formulate architectural responses to the rapidly changing built environment and societies worldwide. Founded in 1985 in Vorarlberg (Austria), Baumschlager Eberle Architekten have 14 independent branches in Europe and Asia. The office communities currently comprise around 300 employees from 21 nations. Our local presence deepens our understanding of local contexts, environmental and cultural characteristics. This is important because with our architecture Baumschlager Eberle Architekten assume responsibility: for the clients, the users and the sustainability of the environment.