Construction of Solidaris' new headquarters on Ghent's Vrijdagmarkt underway
(14.03.2025) Construction work has started for the renovation and expansion of Solidaris' new headquarters on Ghent's Vrijdagmarkt. With the relocation from Zwijnaarde to the heart of Ghent, Solidaris is returning to its historic roots. Partnership B-architecten-Bressers architecten won the design competition for this iconic project in 2019 and will now transform the building into the mutualist headquarters of the 21st century.
The new Solidaris Oost-Vlaanderen headquarters will accommodate a range of functions: not only will the health insurance office be located here, there will also be space for 380 back-office workstations and meeting rooms for mixed-use activities by various associations and like-minded organisations.
Our design focuses on three key themes set out by Solidaris for this project: full accessibility and equality, sustainability, and promoting a broader societal value. With these core values in mind, our design team has embarked on the task: Bressers architecten is dedicated to the restoration and reconfiguration of the historic building, while B-architecten is focusing on the renovation and new constructions.
We carried out an in-depth analysis of the existing condition. The historically valuable parts will be restored to their former glory, including the iconic Vooruit building. Inspired by Parisian department stores, this space was once designed as an open, airy meeting area, inviting visitors with generous glass façades. We are now bringing back that sense of light, space, and accessibility.
This accessibility is also reflected in the level of the different floor plates across the site: in the future, these will all be on a single level. The Solidaris headquarters will not only cater to diverse organisations with its meeting spaces but will also ensure that the unique location and inner courtyard are accessible to both building users and local residents. This will transform the site into a new green outdoor space, offering a pleasant environment by the water.
Sustainability is also a central focus: not only will the maximum preservation of the existing buildings and the use of sustainable technologies contribute to this, we are also promoting sustainable mobility. Current car parking spaces will be replaced with an extensive bicycle parking facility and amenities for cyclists, such as showers and changing rooms. The generous green oasis in the inner courtyard will also visibly demonstrate our commitment to sustainability.
In short, the new Solidaris headquarters will not only provide employees and users with a comfortable working environment, it will also become a new landmark — an inviting space where visitors and residents can find tranquillity in the heart of Gent.
In short
Official start of construction: 14 March 2025 | Expected completion: 22 October 2027
Architects: partnership B-architecten & Bressers architecten | Contractor: Artes
Press contact
Tom Bosman | Director of members
+32 478 65 00 01