From an old candy factory to an exclusive, urban, and striking office building with custom-made kreon fixtures

In the heart of Berchem, a suburb of Antwerp, Dieter Vander Velpen Architects achieved a remarkable transformation. The once lively Euro Sweets candy factory, known for its pastel-coloured candies and chocolates, found a second life. The industrial heritage was transformed into a loft-like space of 550 square meters. This space now serves not only as an office but also as a meeting place and event venue. The eye-catchers are the custom-made kreon fixtures that illuminate the various spaces.

The entire building, dating back to 1919, was completely stripped. The new office of Dieter Vander Velpen Architects was established on the second floor. The industrial charm of the building, with its raw exposed concrete and original floors, was preserved and forms an exciting contrast with contemporary interior elements. For example, the molds of the candies will soon add an artistic touch to the foyer. The architecture firm also cleverly utilizes this space as a virtual showroom and source of inspiration.

While the space pays homage to the history of the building, it also looks toward the future. Thanks to roof and exterior wall insulation, the building's energy performance has been improved. Additionally, there are plans for solar panels.

Mysterious James Bond atmosphere thanks to kreon fixtures

The highlights of the interior are the carefully integrated kreon fixtures. kreon holon 60, in brushed aluminum, discreetly illuminates the corridors and kitchen. The minimalist design also enhances the aesthetic value of the building. In the meeting room, the kreon nuit profile, also in brushed aluminum, ensures uniform lighting, ideal for presentations and meetings. For the workspace, Vander Velpen chose the kreon kagi profile, which, thanks to asymmetrical optics, provides optimal task lighting. Out on the terrace, the kreon wabi seamlessly combines aesthetics with functionality. The outdoor fixture features an optimally shielded optical system that maintains visual comfort and illuminates the ground surfaces.

Loyal partners

kreon has been a long-standing partner of Dieter Vander Velpen. From the drawing board, kreon contributed to the design. The renovated interior, inspired by brutalism, boasts abundant natural daylight. Combined with quality lighting, the spaces create an optimal working atmosphere. It is an essential component that harmonizes both aesthetically and functionally with the space.

The lighting is precisely tailored to technical details such as faucets and outlets. An impressive wall serves as a cabinet full of samples, with the weathered bronze lighting detail helping to highlight items. The cabinet, which displays new samples monthly, also acts as a connecting point between different zones of the office and is accentuated by several kreon holon 60 fixtures.

With a warmth of 2700K, the lighting provides an inviting glow, unique and distinct from other offices, combined with both pendant and fixed fixtures. Dieter was looking for Belgian partners for the office's furnishing. Therefore, support from the Limburg-based lighting brand kreon was evident. The lighting is custom-made, often based on standard models but adapted to the specific needs and desires of the architect.

The Vander Velpen touch in the interior

The choice of this property was based on its location, size, and the charm of the original interior. Vander Velpen opted for a vintage-inspired interior in which various original accents were preserved. The result is an interior that emphasizes the contrast between the industrial style and luxurious elements. Bronze and rust accents are repeated in the sofas, in the large wooden table in the office space, and in the lighting.

Dieter Vander Velpen Architects blend old and new, raw and refined, historical and modern in the new office building. Through their collaboration with kreon, they succeeded in creating a space that embodies aesthetics, functionality, and innovation.