Eden - Artistic creation center

Programme

The transformation of Eden reimagines a dynamic and adaptable cultural center, in tune with the evolving artistic and sociocultural landscape. Through a series of targeted interventions, existing spaces are reinterpreted: the brasserie is transformed into a hub of conviviality, the Cinq building hosts workshops, artist residencies, and shared spaces, while a new circulation core connects the buildings. The project also incorporates an energy-efficient renovation and the creation of a green urban oasis—the Jardin d’Eden—a true breath of fresh air for the city.

About

Eden defines itself as “a place of diversity and crossbreeding, a space of expression for the whole of the “Pays Noir”, an undisciplined cultural project open to all and to all forms of culture within and outside the walls”. Selected by the new management in 2012, RESERVOIR A proposes a non-ostentatious architecture that pursues the objective of making a cultural tool where everything is possible. The transformation and expansion program took shape in several successive phases. 

RESERVOIR A transformed the reception area at the same time as the large brewery. The use of the space is modified by large core holes that create a permeability between the access area and the brewery room. These openings through the wall complete the stripped-down look of the rest of the space. The original generous proportions are restored, and a new visual identity is ensured by two elements: the use of black and white, and the installation of a long iconic concrete bar.

The "Cinq" building, acquired in 2018, completes the institution. It comprises a first space on the first floor, designed as a third place - a place to live, meet and share practices and experiences. Multi-purpose workshop spaces, storage areas and a rehearsal room occupy the two upper floors; the third and attic have become the place for artist residencies. A series of demolitions and alterations have streamlined circulation between the buildings and their floors. Once again, the interventions are targeted and the color black plays a major role in the unity created.

A large open-air fire escape is now enclosed by a lightweight steel and polycarbonate structure. It becomes the central circulation column between the floors of Eden's various buildings. Carbonifère's landscape architects have planted a courtyard in the interior of the block, which has quickly become known as... the Garden of Eden.

Inside, the treatment of materials and textures celebrates the history and identity of the pre-existing building, favoring creative reuse over demolition or heavy transformation.

Typology

Culture

Status

Construit

Year of conception

2012

Year of delivery

2023

Client

Eden - Centre culturel de Charleroi

Total budget

710.000€ €

Per m² budget

237€

Constructed area

3000 m²

More information
https://reservoira.org/project/eden-centre-de-creation-artistique-charleroi/