Restoration 'Radt Van Avonturen'

The construction history of Het Groot Radt van Avonturen in its current form goes back to the 16th century. Antwerp was bursting at the seams and flourishing as a global city. As a result of the Spanish Fury in 1576, the town hall — along with a large part of the surrounding historic city centre — burned down. The original medieval building was lost in the fire as well. Immediately after the fire, in 1579, the house with shop was rebuilt. The present appearance of the building is therefore largely around 450 years old.

After a meticulous two-year restoration, Het Groot Radt van Avonturen once again radiates its former grandeur. Façades and major structural elements were restored, as well as the roof and windows. The internal layout, however, was reconfigured to meet contemporary needs.

Each floor has become its own compact living space, complete with kitchenette, laundry and shower room, all accessed by a concrete spiral staircase — a nod to the building’s original stair. Particular care went into a sustainable restoration with completely renewed building services. The building is now excellently insulated.

For the finishing, natural and authentic materials were used and reinterpreted in a contemporary way: Belgian bluestone, mineral cast floors, mineral paints, solid timber joinery, handmade wrought iron…

Today, the building shines once again as a polished little gem in the historic heart of Antwerp.