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Landewyck Building, Luxembourg [Award winner]

The historic building was transformed into a modern office with a neo-industrial design through extensive renovations. In June 2024, this unique redevelopment project was awarded the prestigious Bauhärepräis by the OAI.

Project Information

Type: Administration building with production and storage areas
Location: Luxembourg-Hollerich
Client: Landimmo Real Estate (part of the Landewyck Group)
GFA: ±5.600 m² refurbished; ±400 m² newly constructed
Duration: 2018 - 2022

Context

The striking former headquarters of the Heintz van Landewyck tobacco manufactory has shaped the cityscape of Hollerich in Luxembourg since 1937. Designed by Georges Traus and Michel Wolff in the Bauhaus style, it is defined by clean lines, rounded corners, and generous industrial glazing. The then-novel steel frame construction enabled open, light-filled spaces – a key feature of industrial architecture of the time.

The original complex consisted of a head building for administration and management, and a long production wing stretching along Rue Joseph Heintz. Together, they formed a cohesive ensemble that remained in use for many decades.

After production was relocated in 2020, the now-listed building was extensively reimagined on behalf of Landimmo Real Estate. BELVEDERE Architecture was commissioned as architect, interior architect, and project manager. As part of the complex general renovation, selective deconstruction was carried out and a new staircase inserted to improve access and meet today’s functional requirements.

As a nationally protected heritage site, the building underwent a detailed historical and architectural study in 2020 to guide the restoration process. The aim was to preserve the original substance wherever possible while correcting previous unsympathetic alterations. For example, in the head building, new custom-made windows were installed to restore the rounded corners facing Rue de Hollerich – replacing standard windows from a previous renovation. As a result, the current appearance is now closer to the original 1937 state than it has been in decades.

At the same time, the building was prepared for a new future use. Two new structures were added to the ensemble: a vertical tower and a horizontal wing. Both integrate seamlessly into the overall composition with their clear geometry and restrained materiality, and are clad in a metallic curtain façade made of perforated golden aluminium panels – a deliberate reference to the industrial origin of the site. This material language is also echoed in the new reception area, which reinforces the formal clarity of the overall ensemble and is clearly identifiable for visitors.

The new office spaces build on this context and take it further: exposed structural and technical elements, floor-to-ceiling glazing and robust materials create a working atmosphere in a refined neo-industrial style. The floor plans are designed for flexibility – as open-plan areas, private offices, or shared zones – supporting a wide range of contemporary working styles.

The quality of this transformation was recognised in 2024 with the Bauhärepräis, awarded by the Chamber of Architects and Engineers of Luxembourg. The official inauguration of the building took place on 11 May 2023.

Project participants

Structural engineer: HLG Ingénieurs-conseils SARL
Technical engineer: ENERVENTIS LUX S.A.
General contractor: SOLUDEC
Control office: SECO
Security: HBH S.A.
Outdoor facilities: AREAL Landscape Architecture