Historic Noorderpershuis roofs in Antwerp to be restored, preserving industrial heritage

Antwerp is undertaking a significant restoration of the historic roofs of the Noorderpershuis, a vital piece of industrial heritage located at the Kattendijkdok-Oostkaai on the Eilandje.

The project, slated for completion in autumn 2027, aims to secure the building's future by preserving its valuable industrial past. The Noorderpershuis, designed by city architect Gustave Royers, is a protected monument with a rich history as the port's hydraulic power station. It once used steam power to operate an extensive network of pipes, driving cranes, bridges, and lock gates throughout the harbor, a function mirrored by the Zuiderpershuis for the southern docks and quays.

Work will focus on cleaning and restoring the roofs, with particular attention to the wooden and metal structures, and replacing the roofing material. The exterior woodwork of the roof lanterns and cornices will also be repaired to match the original design. Key areas targeted include the front section facing Kattendijkdok-Oostkaai and the 1877 machine room, as well as the accumulator tower and the 1914 machine room on the Indiëstraat side. Previous restoration efforts on the building took place in 2017.

"The Noorderpershuis once powered the cranes, bridges, and locks of our port and is inextricably linked to the story of the city," said Koen Kennis (N-VA), alderman for Heritage and chairman of AG Vespa. "By restoring the roofs, we are keeping this piece of industrial heritage in good condition and preparing it for a new future." AG Vespa, which manages the city's real estate, is exploring new uses for the site, ensuring that heritage and the complex's unique identity are central to the plans. The Antwerpse Brouw Compagnie currently operates from a warehouse on the site and will remain open during the restoration work.