Eco-friendly renovation of a historic former clinic into a training center and headquarters for the Brussels Capital Red Cross

Project: Eco-friendly renovation of a historic former clinic into a training center and headquarters for the Brussels Capital Red Cross
Architect: USAGES

Programme

Eco-friendly renovation of a historic former clinic into a training center and headquarters for the Brussels Capital Red Cross

The new BRUCAP headquarters for the Belgian Red Cross is like a large, lived-in home where values are shared. It is an inspiring everyday workplace for a family of dedicated individuals. Humanity – impartiality – neutrality – independence – voluntary service – unity – universality permeate the Red Cross’s missions. Our proposal seeks to translate these values into the physical space. They inspire the foundation of the interventions necessary for the renovation of this grand house.

How can we create a peaceful workplace, far removed from the rigid configuration of the “20th-century office”? As each person, in their own way, seeks to create a space of their own, personal photos, cherished or inspiring objects, plants, and works of art… are there to reinforce the connection between the individual and the space they inhabit. Much like at home. This is the starting point of our proposal. How can we move beyond the “office” environment and strive for a domestic, embodied, and inspiring workspace?

About: We proposed to the client that we preserve what is already there to align their programmatic and technical needs with highly targeted interventions that respect the building’s existing qualities. The work will be carried out in several phases: first, the interior spaces are being renovated with healthy, eco-friendly, or reused materials (2023–2025). In a second phase (spring 2026), to complete the circulation routes and accessible entryways, a monumental spiral staircase and a steel walkway will be installed in the courtyard, which will be partially paved to create a micro-garden.
The building envelope is insulated from the inside, improving the thermal and acoustic qualities of the spaces; obsolete aluminum window frames are replaced with high-performance chestnut wood joinery; old cast-iron radiators are renovated; and certain lightweight partitions are dismantled for reuse on-site. The original terrazzo and terracotta floors are preserved, supplemented, or repaired.
The spaces are painted, and the chosen colors enhance their character. While circulation areas contrast anthracite with warm white, occasionally accented with Klein blue, work areas feature soft beige-yellows, and relaxation and meeting spaces offer a warmer orange hue. All of these colors were already present and reveal the original materials.
The new light fixtures are either custom-made (designed by Gilles Lechantre, a Brussels-based artisan) or vintage 1930s models that are still in production. They are chrome-plated and complement the chrome and patina of the antique metalwork on the doors and the handrail of the main staircase.
The furniture is custom-designed so that, visually, it neutralizes the office equipment and highlights the people, plants, artwork, and light. It is made of reused CLT (“Circular Timber”) stained black.
Minimalist contemporary signage plays with the functional character of the spaces and the colors (Collin Hotermans+Usages).