Article 1. Antwerp and Contemporary Architectural Highlights
With notable architecture from the welcoming Antwerp Central Station, the gothic Cathedral of Our Lady that towers over the city, the interior of ModeMuseum, City Hall and Rubinshuis, Antwerp is full of distinctive and beautiful buildings. It’s just a 50 minute train ride away from Brussels and the perfect side step from the capital. Below are our four favourite contemporary architecture from the city.
Skyspace by James Turrell
On the rooftop terrace of M HKA (Museum of Contemporary Art Antwerp) is Skyspace, an installation by James Turrell, which plays with architectural precision, minimalism, light, visual beauty and produces a tranquil environment for visitors.
It is one of our favourite places in the city due to the slight interactive aspect and the feeling of escape (from the vibrat world) with a reminder of time passing as the light revolves around the perfectly aligned beams of wood and clean white ceiling.
Definitely set some time aside for coffee on the rooftop… Maybe a recommendation for the museum would be to hold yoga or meditation classes there...
Antwerp Port House by Zaha Hadid Architects
The distinctive architecture amalgamates a preserved disused fire station and a distinctive contemporary addition which has an exterior that replicates the changing shades and tones of waves by reflecting altering light conditions. The architects utilised triangular transparent and opaque facets to achieve a continuously changing facade. The result is a visually bold building with contemporary and historic amalgamated aspects.
Museum aan de Stroom
Defined by its deconstructivist architecture and lined with a red sandstone and curved glass, the building is a unique focal point in the docks and the city. The red extends to a neighbouring museum shop and courtyard creating a intertwined wider area. The museum houses many historic artefacts and has specific themes in its exhibitions. There is also a viewing deck for visitors to appreciate the city from an higher view. A walk at sunset or evening is a must, especially when the sky is a clear deep blue. Also, take note of the hands that line the building walls, it is linked to the fountain in the main square and is a story about a giant (which changes every time a local is asked what it is about).
St. Felix Warehouse
The St. Felix Warehouse was built in 1860 for storage of goods and now houses the Felix Archive which holds municipal archives and historic documents of the port. The beauty is in the passageway which is a bright space encompassed by a modernised industrial design that retains its historic presence. A brief walk but is worth every step.
