Zaha Hadid Architects’ Port House officially opened this week, integrating futuristic design with the city’s history as a pioneer global trading hub and diamond center. Made of 2,000 triangular glass panels, it cost 55 million euros.
The design combines a listed and formerly derelict fire station, which was restored as part of the project, with an eye-catching glass extension which rises out of the older building’s courtyard and thrusts itself towards the water in a dramatic cantilever, architecture website ArchDaily reports.
The new Port House, which now stands as a symbolic gateway to the port area, will host the Port of Antwerp’s 500 employees who were previously working across separate sites in the Belgian city.
The extension is covered in triangular facets – some transparent and others opaque – which are arranged to create a flat surface at the south end and a rippling texture that echoes the water at the north.
Photographer Thomas Mayer visited the building, capturing its striking external presence and investigating how its structural gymnastics translate to the building’s internal space. You may view his photos here
