Goujons

Built in 1976 by the Foyer Anderlechtois, the folded building on Rue des Goujons is 95 metres long and houses 378 families. The Goujons operation was to be part of a modernist architectural ensemble. The PPAS Goujons project, developed between 1968 and 1971, aimed to connect the constructions around Place Albert with the new constructions along the canal in a radical redevelopment of the working-class, industrial district of Cureghem, but was partially aborted after the first oil crisis. With its 18 floors, this ‘big, isolated building complex’ creates a clear break in the urban fabric.

The Goujons building suffers from the generalised stigmatisation of housing blocks, even though at the time of its inauguration it was the pride of its inhabitants. However, its peculiar form could bring about a radical change of image, because unlike other buildings, the fold of Goujons does not respond to its surrounding context but submits to the landscape by following the old bed of the Senne.

The renovation of the building’s envelope, precipitated by the deterioration of the old balconies, provided an opportunity to create more spacious terraces along the length of the building, from which residents can once again enjoy a breathtaking view. The technical solutions were designed to be carried out quickly and easily from the outside, with minimal disruption to the tenants throughout the operation. The assembly of prefabricated concrete elements effectively solves various technical issues at once; they can even serve as permanent scaffolding.

The balconies mark, on the façade, a renewed identity whose radicalism resonates with the modern project while seeking to correct the scale breaks. The balconies fold from the outer edge towards the inner edge of the columns in a weaving movement that produces a rhythmic play of shadows. As one goes up the floors, the concrete parapet thickens to protect the inhabitants from the feeling of emptiness, and the pleating tightens until it reaches the major fold of the building. This double progression anchors the building in its neighbourhood while marking the Brussels skyline with the symbolic presence of the Senne in a majestic fold. 

Since its completion in 1976, the Goujons tower has not undergone any major renovation. Its overdue upgrade is now an opportunity to envelop the building in a new protective skin — one that improves residents' comfort while drastically reducing energy use.
But beyond thermal performance, this transformation also represents a unique occasion to provide tenants with new generous balconies. These new outdoor spaces redefine the building’s presence, giving it a renewed identity — both in the neighborhood and within the broader urban landscape.

The ground floor renovation was an opportunity to offer new social spaces to residents. Three dwellings - unoccupied and poorly suited to the foot of a residential building-  were replaced by small-scale neighborhood facilities that bring new life to the base of the tower : a gym, a community space, and the extension of a medical practice into a neighborhood health center