You are warmly invited to the presentation of Take On Add Away – A Transformation of the Palais des Expositions Charleroi on Monday, June 8, 2026, joined by Harold Fallon and Jan De Vylder.
The Charleroi Palais des Expositions (Chapex) is the first Belgian project to win the Mies van der Rohe Award, the European prize for contemporary architecture. The book was edited by AgwA and architecten jan de vylder inge vinck; photos by Filip Dujardin and published by Ruby Press.
This book tells the story of the transformation of the Palais des Expositions (Chapex) in Charleroi, Belgium. Built between 1948 and 1953 by architect Joseph André as a symbol of the nation’s progress, the vast complex fell into disuse after the decline of steel and coal. With a design approach rooted in radical sufficiency, AgwA and architecten jan de vylder inge vinck reveal the building’s inherent qualities. By removing much of the façade while preserving the floors, stairs, and roof, they transform the central hall into an open urban foyer that reconnects the structure with the city and the surrounding landscape. Doorzon Interieurarchitecten, Denis Dujardin, Bureau Greisch and Delta GC were also contributing to the realization of Chapex.
- Monday, June 8, 2026, 6 PM
- Faculty of Architecture, Campus Sint-Lucas Brussels, Paleizenstraat 65, 1030 Brussels