Mosa Ballet School

Programme: Transformation of a National Bank into an International Dance School

About: Designed in the 1960s by the architects of the EGAU group, the former headquarters of the Banque Nationale is an emblematic building in Liège. At the time of its construction, the building's expression was intended to reflect the stability of the banking institution. The result is an architectural composition with neoclassical accents and a rich, sophisticated palette of materials.
Transforming a former National Bank into an International Ballet School is no mean feat. The dance studios have a floor area of between 100 and 200m², with an ideal ceiling height of 4.50 metres. Apart from the majestic teller hall, spaces of such proportions do not exist in the old Bank.
The project proposes to locate the new studios at the ends of the building, in its least valued areas. These contemporary ‘boxes’ in light-coloured render emerge from the existing building without confusion or conflict. The composition of the openings in the façades is the result of fine work based on the interior experience of each studio. The large windows are positioned to provide an optimal interior layout (mirrors, bars), guaranteeing diffused light and concentration for the dancers.
Inside the old bank, wherever possible the existing features have been preserved.
Original materials such as arabescato marble, polished walnut and the solid stainless steel of the window frames have been preserved, giving the new school the banking atmosphere of the time.