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The ZIN project in Brussels exemplifies an innovative approach to architectural transformation, proving that existing buildings can be revitalized without demolition. By repurposing the 1970s World Trade Center (WTC I & II), ZIN shifts a monofunctional office complex into a vibrant, mixed-use urban hub with social, ecological, and functional value.
Initiated through temporary occupation and on-site collaboration with designers, users, and residents, the project revealed the building’s latent spatial potential and redefined its relationship with the city. It promotes a new urbanity based on functional hybridity—combining housing, offices, hotel, sports, and public spaces—while encouraging flexible, permeable uses.


The strategy relied on the conservation and reuse of a significant portion of the existing structure in a circular, low-impact process. With only 5% of materials discarded, and 30,000 tons of concrete recycled, the project met the highest environmental standards, including Cradle to Cradle certification for 95% of new materials. As a nearly zero-energy building, it meets all its energy needs through on-site renewable sources. As the largest circular construction project in Belgium, ZIN advanced the decarbonization of construction supply chains and helped overcome regulatory barriers to circularity. It sets a precedent for sustainable urban renewal, offering long-term adaptability.

City

Brussels

Country

Belgium

Use Before

Office

Use After

Mixed Use

Area Before

70.000 m2

Area After

115.000 m²

Construction

1973

Year

2017