For some time now, a new silhouette has been rising against the Antwerp skyline: an intriguing, undulating wall featuring a pattern of inverted triangles. Antwerp’s new provincial government building, designed by XDGA, replaces the imposing tower that dominated this part of the city for some 40 years. This says something about the more modest role of the provincial administration. Yet it is an ambitious building. Not only does it redefine the neighbourhood, it is also exceptional in its design and detailing.

The old provincial government building, designed by René Grosemans and Maurice De Vocht, did not have a long life. Although it had only been in use since 1970, the province of Antwerp decided as early as 2005 to demolish it due to sky-high heating costs and numerous technical problems. Moreover, the tower obstructed the approach path to Deurne Airport. Nevertheless, there was a desire to retain the 75-metre-long, low-rise front section. This prestigious part of the complex had been built later, and was so richly decorated that demolition after only around 25 years seemed far too wasteful.