The Mediacite Building was designed by Ron Arad Architects in Liege, stands out as a symbol of the city’s revitalization and strives to spearhead the city’s regeneration. The 350 metre long mall weaves through the fabric of the refurbished old market centre at one end, through the new two storey building, connecting to the new Belgian national television centre at the other. The design of the roof unites these elements with a complex network of steel roof ribs that undulate through the mall. The lattice of steel sculpts the volume of the mall beneath, varying both in height and structural depth to form a variety of differing experiences.

As the structure exits the volume of the main building at the two piazzas and at the link between the old market and new building the steel ribs wrap downwards, merging into the façade and forming the building’s envelope. The structure is entirely free-spanning along its length and width, with 200mm wide steel ribs that vary in depth from 300mm to 1200mm, weaving through each other in a deformed grid-like network. To minimize loadings, the complex three dimensional structure is clad in transparent lightweight ETFE – pneumatic Texlon cushions which allow light to penetrate the roof while moulding themselves to the irregular structure. As the roof gradually transforms into façade, the ETFE cladding merges into curved aluminium rain-screen panels and glass.The project was completed to a highly accelerated programme, with a duration of only 34 months from inception to completion.

Architects : Ron Arad Architects
Photos         : Wilhelm & Co

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