The historic Chambon complex won the award for Best Refurbished Building at the MIPIM Awards 2017 in Cannes on 16 March. The former headquarters of the Caisse Générale d’Epargne et de Retraite (CGER), located right in the centre of Brussels (500 metres from the Grand-Place), has been fully renovated to respond to the growing demand for high-quality accommodation in the heart of the capital of Europe.

The Chambon building complex, named after the Franco-Belgian architect who designed the site’s famous art deco U-shaped building, is a collection of multiple buildings, some of which are architectural wonders while others are newly built. The complex has been seamlessly renovated, with a view to sustainability and versatility. While 60% of the Chambon consists of accommodation, studios, luxury apartments, investment properties and student rooms, it also contains office areas, shops and two hotels.

The developer Immobel and the architects A2RC and Jaspers-Eyers have given this emblematic complex –the former headquarters of the CGER dates from 1889 – a new lease on life, creating a complex that is a great place to live and work, which also features a large green space that can be accessed by occupants and local residents.

Marnix Galle, executive chairman of Immobel, “thanks the jury and everyone who voted for the Chambon renovation. The centre of Brussels is becoming an increasingly popular place to live. We need to offer people high-quality apartments, which are sustainable and which respect the historical fabric of the city. We are especially pleased that this aim was taken into account by the jury and voters.”

According to Jean-Michel Jaspers (Jaspers-Eyers), Michel Verliefden and Brigitte D’Helft (A2RC), “this award is the result of teamwork. It is also a recognition of our expertise. Immobel asked us to give the Chambon a new purpose in the city. In our eyes, this MIPIM Award is proof that we have fulfilled our mission.”

Download the complete version of the press release hereunder: