Radiant Office Spaces, a source of inspiration

Step inside RYO, a building that captures the energy, clarity, and diversity, a space where inspiration flows freely, knowledge is shared, and enthousiasm for a new way of working shines.

Architect: Jaspers & Eyers Architects + ATAMA

Rue Joseph II, 70 - Brussels

Architectural Vision

Architecturally, the existing building offers key advantages, notably a large interior courtyard that brings abundant natural light to the office spaces.

1. Shallow floor plates allow deep natural light and flexible layouts aligned with contemporary uses.

2. The complex consists of four entities with uniform high-performance equipment.

3. The exposed concrete structure is in excellent condition, supporting the preservation of the existing structure.

4. The oversized basements offer strong potential for space optimisation and enhancement.

About The Building

RYO is a redevelopment project for an existing building located on the block formed by Joseph II (68–80), Spa (5–7a) and Stevin (1–13) streets.

Currently occupied by the European Commission, and more specifically by the Directorate-General for Education and Culture, the building is now entirely dedicated to office functions.

The architectural assignment was awarded to ATAMA and Jasper & Eyers, in collaboration with Dieter De Vos, following a call for tenders launched by Whitewood in April 2025, conducted in coordination with the Bouwmeester-Maître-Architecte of the Brussels-Capital Region.

After the pre-selection of five teams and in-depth interviews, ATAMA was selected as the winner on 13 June 2025 for the architectural design project.

Light at the Core

Function Breakdown

Sustainability Features

BREEAM OUTSTANDING

ensuring very high environmental performance through reduced energy demand, renewable energy integration, low-carbon materials, responsible water and site management, and rigorous commissioning with operational monitoring via the BMS.

WELL GOLD

placing user health and well-being at the centre through high indoor air and light quality, thermal and acoustic comfort, and low-emission materials.

The project follows a comprehensive circular sustainability approach that prioritises preserving existing structures, re-insulating façades with mineral materials, and reusing materials, including wood cladding for the inner courtyard.

A. Carbon Performance

The project integrates energy efficiency, reduced embodied and operational carbon, and responsible resource use. It prioritises circularity and low-impact bio-based and geo-based materials, aligning with European decarbonisation pathways and supporting long-term sustainability.

B. Opportunities for Reuse

The project follows a circular approach that prioritises renovation over demolition, reuses existing materials through urban mining, and ensures materials retain value for future reuse.

C. Prefabrication

Prefabricated façades and technical modules reduce carbon impact, optimise resources, and improve construction quality. Off-site manufacturing enables faster assembly, less waste, better performance, and easier dismantling and reuse.

D. Integrated Water Management

The project combines reduced potable water use, rainwater harvesting, greywater reuse, and on-site infiltration to address water scarcity and flood risks, in compliance with Brussels Environment standards.

E. Structure

The design prioritises maximum preservation of the existing structure, with only targeted structural reinforcements where necessary.

F. Energy Performance (EPB / PEB)

The project targets PEB A for all office spaces within a fossil-fuel-free concept, aligned with Brussels regulations and the CRREM decarbonisation pathway, with monitoring to optimise performance during operation.