Building O – University of Antwerp Auditorium and Research Building Winning Proposal / META architectuurbureau

META architectuurbureau, in collaboration with SW, Technum, and landscape architects, West 8, were recently awarded the first prize in the competition for Building O, an auditorium and laboratory building for the University of Antwerp. The new multi-disciplinary building, sited on the Drie Eiken campus in Wilrijk, will host 8 auditoriums, with the capacity to hold about 200-300 people, and 2 laboratories. More images and architects’ description after the break.

The building forms the heart of the campus, its design emphasizing both the central and multidisciplinary functions it serves. An open relationship is forged between the new project and the existing built infrastructure, as well as the natural environment. Rather than mimicking the landscape, the building recognizes its impact, and chooses to assert its positive presence therein.

Architects: META architectuurbureau
Location: Antwerp, Belgium
Extended Design Team: SW architecten, Technum
Collaborators: Simone Valerio, Rob Wesselink
Landscape Architect: West 8
Client: University of Antwerp
Program: 8 auditoria, 2 specialist laboratories, research room, copy room, parking for 230 bikes, foyer
Competition: 2012, First prize