Photo of the façade of Thor Central at Thor Park in Genk.
Photo of the façade of Thor Central at Thor Park in Genk. © Marc Sourbron

Client
Autonoom Gemeentebedrijf Genk

Location
Genk

Architects
Satijnplus / ELD Mijnsite Waterschei THV

Engineering consultancies
Satijnplus / ELD Mijnsite Waterschei THV

Construction period
03/2015 - 06/2017

Project size
10,000 m²

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Thor Central

The historic mining building in Waterschei was renovated to become the central building of Thor Park, accommodating an auditorium, catering facilities, childcare facilities, offices and event spaces.

Waterschei Mining Building

The project focuses on restoring, renovating and repurposing the main building of the former Waterschei mine site. This transformation is essential as the building will serve as the central hub for the development of Thor Park, a science and business campus on the historic site. Covering 22,000 square metres, the building will accommodate a range of facilities, including an auditorium, hospitality areas and a childcare centre, all designed for use by local residents and surrounding businesses.

By becoming a multifunctional facility centre, the building will support Thor Park’s future enterprises while also acting as a cultural and social landmark for the city of Genk.

Renovation with a focus on energy consumption

The temporary joint venture Houben – Monument – STRABAG Belgium was responsible for the turnkey finishing of the renovation and redevelopment works. The entire external façade and approximately half of the interior of the main building were renovated.

Various techniques and measures were implemented as part of the renovation to reduce the building’s energy consumption.