OUEST Architecture in Roubaix: a discussion on the rehabilitation of 20th-century heritage

On 30 October 2026, Stéphane Damsin, architect at the Brussels-based architecture office OUEST Architecture, took part in Architectures et Territoires, a day-long event organised by the Regional Council of the Order of Architects of Hauts-de-France at the National Archives of the World of Work in Roubaix.

This edition focused on the challenges of rehabilitating 20th-century architecture, bringing together architects, clients, elected representatives and heritage specialists to discuss the transformation of existing buildings.

Transforming without erasing

The rehabilitation of social housing, the conversion of former industrial sites, energy-efficient renovation and the transformation of office buildings: discussions explored the various challenges involved in adapting 20th-century architecture. How can buildings be adapted to new uses while preserving their identity? How can the qualities of existing buildings be revealed rather than starting from scratch?

Stéphane Damsin took part alongside other architects and heritage specialists. These different perspectives offered an opportunity to explore a range of approaches to existing buildings: repairing, revealing, upgrading or reinventing them, while reconciling architectural heritage with contemporary requirements.

The dialogue between architecture and territory

Beyond architectural approaches, Architectures et Territoires provided a space for dialogue between design professionals, social housing providers, elected representatives and other stakeholders involved in urban transformation. The event offered an opportunity to compare experiences and constraints, while examining how architectural practice is evolving in response to environmental, social and urban challenges.