The main building contains administrative offices while the made-over annex offers all the necessary public amenities. The city of Mons, population 100.000, is about 50 km from Brussels.  It is the cultural capital of Wallonia and is nominated Europe’s cultural capital for 2015.

During that year, it will host artistic and cultural events and will serve as showroom for Europe’s cultural heritage.

The Foundation, organized an international competition for the rehabilitation of an ancient historical building in the old centre of town. The proposal is based on 3 main concepts:

First, the private courtyard becomes an open and public square connecting with the surrounding spaces. Secondly, a new pedestrian passageway goes through the building so that the courtyard becomes accessible and convivial. Finally, the U-shaped structure of the existing buildings is maintained. However, one of the derelict annexes is rebuilt to give the ensemble a clear and unique identity.