Feasibility Study of heritage complex for the cabinet buildings of the Flemish Government

The feasibility study concerns the development of a future vision for the cabinet buildings of the Flemish Government at the Martelarenplein site in Brussels. Based on a needs assessment, design-based research, and cost estimations, it explores multiple development scenarios for the buildings at Martelarenplein 7 and 19, and Kreupelstraat 2—all currently housing four ministerial cabinets and some private apartments.

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A key ambition was to align with the Flemish sustainability standards (GRO). The 2016 energy concept study was refined to the most optimal energy strategy, balancing investment, heritage, energy savings, and long-term environmental impact (LCA). 
Beyond energy performance, the study addresses spatial and programmatic shortcomings in the existing buildings. The outdated office layout no longer supports modern ways of working. Therefore, spatial optimization became a second core focus—aimed at improving flexibility, efficiency, natural light, safety and workplace quality while increasing occupancy and consolidating cabinet functions currently scattered across the city. The government work organization model “Het Nieuwe Werken” (The New Way of Working) was essential for the client in shaping a new, flexible needs program tailored to the specific nature of cabinet work.

Additionally, the study explored how the renovation could offer broader urban value to the Martelarenplein area, resulting in a conceptual vision for the site's local, urban and international context.

The outcomes of the feasibility study were three integrated development scenarios. It served as a masterplan, a starting point for launching the design competition for the actual renovation of the building complex.