A Belgian project has taken centre stage on the European architectural scene. The renovation of the Charleroi Exhibition Palace, known as Chapex, has just won the highly coveted European Union Prize for Contemporary Architecture, marking a first for Belgium.
© Pixabay
Awarded every two years, this prize is regarded as the highest European distinction in the field of architecture. Established in 1987, the EUmies Award recognises projects that stand out for their architectural quality, innovation and contribution to Europe’s built environment.
The jury praised a project of “great complexity”, led by the architectural firms AgwA and Jan De Vylder & Inge Vinck, which joined forces to breathe new life into one of Charleroi’s landmark buildings.
After seven years of work and an investment exceeding 50 million euros, the Exhibition Palace underwent a profound transformation. Designed in the 1950s by architect Joseph André, the complex, covering more than 50,000 square metres, was rethought to meet contemporary requirements in terms of use, sustainability and energy performance.
It was precisely this focus on sustainability, the building’s energy impact, and careful budget control that convinced the European jury.
The project represents a fine Belgian success story, bringing together two architectural firms — one Flemish, the other Brussels-based — working in close collaboration in the heart of a Walloon city.
