Dockin - Construction of a mixed-use office, innovation center and coworking space

Project: Dockin - Construction of a mixed-use office, innovation center and coworking space
Architect: RESERVOIR A

Momentary association

RESERVOIR A

Programme

The Dockin building represents a new dynamic for Charleroi’s Ville-Basse, integrating a mixed-use program that combines offices, coworking spaces, innovation, and dining. Open to the banks of the Sambre, it promotes flexibility of use and seamless interaction with the public space.

The architecture blends classicism with uniqueness, featuring white glazed brick façades that reinterpret the surrounding heritage. Designed with the future in mind, the project prioritizes energy efficiency, sustainable mobility, and user comfort.

About: Located in the heart of Charleroi’s Ville-Basse, along the banks of the Sambre, the Dockin project occupies the entire western side of an urban block where a series of aging buildings once stood. This prime location provides strategic visibility for the project’s stakeholders.
The façade composition follows a classical structure, organized into three sections: a glazed ground floor resting on a concrete base, the main body of the building spanning the first four floors, and the fifth and sixth floors set back, forming a crowning element. This setback reduces the perceived height of the building and lightens its presence at the corner facing the listed De Heug building. The choice of white glazed brick for the façades strikes a balance—respecting the surrounding architectural heritage without overshadowing it while asserting a distinct identity.
The building will house a variety of workspaces. The ground floor and first two floors will accommodate a restaurant and a coworking space. The third, fourth, and fifth floors will feature open-plan office spaces available for rent, while the sixth floor will serve as the headquarters of Sambrinvest. The architectural design fosters both internal social interactions within the workspace and connections with the city and neighborhood. The fully glazed ground floor enhances this openness, while the restaurant, complete with an animated terrace facing the quay, reinforces the building’s public character.
Despite its initially classical appearance, the project integrates several unique design elements that break away from a predictable architectural system. Each of the three façade ends has been given a distinct treatment to interrupt the regular rhythm of the vertically aligned double windows.
Another standout feature is located on the top floor: a fully glazed volume set atop the terrace. This space, accessible via the private elevator serving Sambrinvest, offers visitors a panoramic view of the surrounding cityscape.