RTBF

The new headquarters, Média Square, of the French-speaking public broadcaster RTBF is part of the large-scale redevelopment of the Reyers district and Mediapark.brussels. The 38,000 m² complex consists of a seven-storey main building, three underground levels and a logistics building. This relocation also gave RTBF the opportunity to fundamentally rethink its working environment.

Within the allocated lots, Pami translated RTBF’s ambitions into interior and furniture solutions that combine flexibility, ergonomics and sustainability. Thanks to its own production capacity, the focus could genuinely be placed on bespoke solutions, finely tuned to use and context.

All functions within the building have been brought together in a single integrated environment: studios, editorial offices, meeting rooms and a restaurant. This centralisation is designed to shorten communication lines and make processes more efficient. Elodie Parisis, Project Manager Facilities & Real Estate, explains:

“RTBF moved out of an outdated building from the 1960s and 1970s. This new project had to be not only technically advanced, but also offer a pleasant workplace. We worked through a public procurement process, and Pami fully met our expectations, both in terms of budget and quality. We had designed a number of furniture pieces that explicitly required customisation. Because Pami also has its own factory in Belgium, these solutions could be developed precisely to measure,” says Parisis.

An important starting point was the creation of a dynamic working environment. With a flex desk ratio of 0.65 and a wide variety of workspaces – from quiet zones to informal meeting areas – the building caters to different working styles. “We developed various spatial layouts to guarantee flexibility and a pleasant atmosphere.” Média Square features 19 studios designed so that teams can share equipment. “This ensures more efficient use of resources and speeds up production processes. For organisations working with complex technical installations, this is a clear added value.”

Pami’s key role

The architectural identity of the building is defined by a combination of raw and natural materials, such as wood, glazed brick, red brick and concrete. “The building has a strong character,” says colleague Francesca Podestà, architect and project leader for interior design. “We wanted to respect that raw appearance, while at the same time softening it with warm accents and organic forms. We placed a strong emphasis on ergonomics and the design of workstations, with close attention to how employees use the spaces on a daily basis. The aim was to create an environment that is not only functional, but also supports the wellbeing of staff.”

“Pami played a key role in this, thanks in part to its own production capacity. Numerous furniture solutions were developed specifically to meet RTBF’s needs. Pami’s strength lies in its collaborative approach,” Podestà concludes. “They think along with you, respond quickly and are exceptionally inventive. That really makes the difference in a project of this scale.”

Text Elke Lamens - FM Magazine