164VANVOLXEM, where Rosas dances

What began as an industrial site has evolved into an international arts hub where people rehearse, dance, and perform. Following an initial expansion of the buildings (1995–2000) by Paul Van Aerschot, the need for more space arose again in 2018. The Brussels-based architectural firm Ouest collaborated with VERS.A to carry out a well-thought-out renovation that preserved the existing features. New dance studios were stacked to minimize the footprint; the sunny south wing became a gathering place with a cafeteria and meeting rooms; and the serene front garden with its large red beech tree remains the defining focal point of the entrance. 164VANVOLXEM is an example of contemporary Brussels architecture in which “living apart together” is the guiding principle: each organization has its own space, yet there is room to come together. During this tour, you’ll get a unique behind-the-scenes look at one of the world’s most innovative dance institutions, located in a complex of buildings dating back to 1900. See how an industrial laundry facility evolved into a creative campus, what the studios and performance spaces look like today, and who knows, you might even feel the urge to dance.