Glaverbel's part in this project involved renovating the glazing for the entire building, including the superb, old-fashioned glass roof.
Located near the Royal Flemish Theatre in Brussels, the Stiel & Rothshild building which recently became home to daily newspaper De Morgen - is renowned for its impressive roof (40 x 20 m) and a skylight covering the entire central section of the building. The roof is made of Stratobel® laminated double glazing featuring a solar-control glass, a solution capable of combining multiple functions: security, protection from overheating in summer, heat insulation in winter, neutral appearance and low reflection. The skylight has been replaced by a Stratobel® laminated glazing with a Crepi patterned glass similar to the original design.
With the installation of these glazings the entire building now features an active double skin designed to ensure maximum thermal comfort. This innovative technique makes rational use of the energy that is generated by the sun's rays as they pass through the roof whilst avoiding a 'greenhouse effect' inside the building. The heat generated in the patio is absorbed and cooled using an outflow system installed in peripheral areas, after which it is returned to the roof where it lowers the ambient air temperature.
The project designers opted for a solution combining heat and sound insulation in order to ensure optimum comfort: Thermoplus Energy® low-emissivity double glazing was used in the windows on the side and rear façades, ensuring the building receives maximum protection from the cold; and Stratophone® acoustic glazing was used for the front façade, thereby respecting the original character of the building by using single glazing but with the added bonus of noise insulation that the original glass did not provide.
This complex renovation project is a perfect example of the many tailor-made roofing solutions which Glaverbel can offer. All the ingredients were combined a quiet environment, soothing light and pleasant temperature to generate optimum working conditions whilst preserving the authenticity of the building. A beautiful example of art deco architecture brought up-to-date !
Glaverbel: Renovation of double skin glass roof for the Stiel & Rothshild building in Brussels
The Stiel & Rothshild building designed in 1926 by architect Armand Warny and home to fabric wholesalers Stiel & Rothshild until 1998 was recently restored by architect Joël Claisse.