Accoya cladding for Molenbeek police station

The new Molenbeek police station in Brussels, designed by Emmanuel Bouffioux Architectes and completed in 2015, sits at the junction of a mixed neighbourhood surrounded by housing, a school, a football stadium and an Olympic pool. The challenge was twofold: to assert a strong image representing public authority and security, while fitting harmoniously into a developing neighbourhood so that residents could make it their own. The building is set off by Accoya cladding, perfectly stable, which avoids cupping and unsightly distortion; its light, contemporary tone makes the building warmer. Despite a small footprint, the design offers bright, flowing spaces: freely accessible terraces, a central patio bringing natural light and flexibility, and visual connections between the occupants of the building and visitors. Photographs: Julien Forthomme.