Port House (Havenhuis)

Overview

The Port House (Havenhuis) is the headquarters of the Port of Antwerp, dramatically redesigned by Zaha Hadid Architects. A gleaming, faceted glass extension — shaped like a diamond — appears to float above a restored 1922 fire station.

Highlights

• Diamond Shape: The glass volume references Antwerp's identity as the diamond capital.
• Day/Night: By day it glitters; by night it's illuminated from within like a lantern.
• Architectural Contrast: The futuristic extension sits atop a beautifully restored red brick fire station.

History

Completed in 2016, it was one of Zaha Hadid's final projects before her death. The original fire station (1922) was repurposed as the base. The design symbolically connects Antwerp's historic port with its modern ambitions.

Visitor Tips

• Exterior only — the building is an office and not open to the public.
• Best viewed from the Kattendijkdok or the MAS rooftop.
• Duration: 10–15 minutes.