The Meelpakhuis is a significant building in the Meelfabriek complex. It is located on the central square along the Singel Canal, creating important dialogues and views with and of its surroundings. 

The remarkable concrete structure of the original building includes columns that make up the most iconic element of the building- a pillared hall. 

The new project emphasizes these emblematic elements by making them visible from the outside. The existing brick facade is removed to give way to a fully glazed volume, which fits into the concrete structure. A nine-storey transparent volume has been inserted into the existing building, creating a strong dialogue between the old concrete and the new intervention in glass.

The vertical circulation of the building is organized around a pre-existing metal spiral, which had been previously used to transport various materials through the building.

The building houses spacious, high-end lofts. Their layout is designed on an open plan, offering multi-oriented views and balconies. Inside, the presence of concrete columns organizes the different living spaces.

The ground floor and the first level host commercial spaces, extending the public space to the canal waterfront while offering pleasant terraces.

The intersection of the new high performing glazed facade with this structure had been one of the major challenges. 

A series of technological advanced solutions are adopted to reach the highest levels of sustainability, thermal performance and comfort for this monumental building:

Punctual perforations were done through the concrete slab and filled with insulation to reduce the thermal bridge. A ground source heat pump system in proximity to the facade was added to complete the system and balance the temperature difference. The pumps of this system are powered by solar panels on the rooftop of the building, hence balancing out the energy consumption needed over the year.