ZIN marks a fundamental transformation in Brussels’ North Quarter and serves as a prime example of how existing structures are incorporated into contemporary high-rise construction. The building transforms the former World Trade Center towers, WTC I and II, into a forward-looking, mixed-use urban block.
In the 1960s, the so-called “Manhattan Plan” launched a major urban development project aimed at creating a business district with skyscrapers, offices, and wide thoroughfares. The World Trade Center was to be built at a central intersection—a cluster of skyscrapers standing in pairs at each corner. Since a large portion of the planned development did not materialize initially, the area lay fallow for years. Today, however, the district still defines the Brussels skyline.
Befimmo, the owner of the towers, launched an open design competition in collaboration with the Bouwmeester Maitre Architecte (BMA, Brussels City Architect). 51N4E and l’AUC won the competition with their concept. Jaspers-Eyers was brought on board as a third partner for the further development and execution of the project.
Instead of completely demolishing the existing high-rises, the two circulation cores and the five basement levels were preserved and incorporated into the new structure. A slab inserted between the two cores now connects the two high-rises into a single structure. The slab requires no separate access and features double-height floors. While this does not significantly increase the square meterage, it does create significantly more volume and, consequently, more possibilities. The flexible floor plans, which span every other floor, can be adapted to a wide range of potential uses.
The floors that are not connected to the slab are independent and can be used as needed. The project team calls this alternating arrangement “Zebra.” Today, the eastern tower alternates between office space and a hotel, while the western tower houses offices and apartments. This mix of uses creates a building that is not only bustling during office hours but remains an integral part of urban life around the clock.
