Ingenious lighting implementation in the renovation of the ‘A’ Bondsgebouw in Antwerp

The ‘A’ Bondsgebouw serves as the headquarters of three trade union centers. It functions as an office building as well as a meeting and event venue. The project team stripped the building back to its structural shell, with the ambition of preserving its cultural-historical character while transforming it into a modern facility.

Natural light as a starting point in the Bondsgebouw

Creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere was essential. Natural light was therefore maximized through a large skylight in the former banquet hall at the rear of the building. Multiline complemented this daylight with a carefully designed artificial lighting concept that takes function, comfort, and architecture into account.

Decorative lighting with globe fixtures creates an elegant and timeless atmosphere, while adjustable spotlights on three-phase tracks allow users to adapt the lighting and create accents as needed.

Atypical ceiling structure: integrating technology without losing height

One of the main challenges in this project was the ceiling structure. The existing concrete structure was preserved, making technical integration far from straightforward. A thorough design approach was required to integrate cabling and lighting without compromising ceiling height.

This is where Multiline played a key role: the lighting plans were developed with a clear installation logic, enabling contractors to immediately understand where each fixture and cable should be placed.

Climate ceilings, control systems, and the right mix of lighting types

In the office spaces, climate ceilings with integrated lighting were selected for their high visual comfort. In addition, DALI control was implemented, allowing dimming and enabling users to adjust light levels according to the moment and use.

Rekta 20 tailored to each space

The Rekta 20 luminaires integrated into the climate ceilings were customized in length and output to ensure that each space complies with applicable EN standards for illuminance and uniformity. This tailored approach required precise coordination and lighting calculations, but ensured that the lighting perfectly matches the function of each area. Because every space serves a different purpose, our lighting designer Evy performed specific calculations for each individual room.

Functional where needed, atmospheric where it matters

In addition to custom architectural lighting, functional lighting was applied where necessary:

• Downlights in the corridors
• Sealed luminaires in technical basement areas
• Certified sealed luminaires in the kitchen, compliant with food industry requirements

Ready to make your renovation project work both technically and architecturally?

Are you renovating a building or working with a complex ceiling structure where lighting must be perfectly integrated? Multiline is happy to support you—from lighting calculations and product selection to detailed design and on-site guidance.

Get in touch and discuss your project with a lighting designer. Together, we will find the right balance between comfort, technology, and architecture in one cohesive lighting concept.