The main road through Schoten. We propose to interpret the new police station as an intermediate figure between the central square and the parking lot of the supermarket.

Open axonometric of the building.

The canopy sustains the public character of the building.

The Police station as an angle to the public space.

The facade as a tectonic stack of concrete blocks. Brass reveals and oregon windows cheer up the concrete.

View onto the skywalk connecting all 4 atria. A transparant yet solid building.

A fragment of a panelled wall.

View of the office space: Night cooling dictates the detailing.

Police Station

Schoten

Front and back elevations

Ground floor

First floor

Cross and longitudinal section

The Police Station designed for the municipality of Schoten is a study of informality and approachability, serving as a functional addition to the public space. The L-shaped structure is positioned towards the rear of the expansive plot, helping to shape a new square.

Upon entering the building, visitors are greeted by a space featuring two interconnected atriums. One atrium, open to the public, includes a reception desk, while the other functions as a staff dining area. The feeling of openness is further enhanced by a visible footbridge and multiple sightlines into the workspaces. The choice of materials reinforces the informal ambiance: high-end finishes are eschewed in favor of concrete blocks and timber. Additionally, the building’s environmental control is streamlined, utilizing natural ventilation and night cooling to regulate indoor conditions.

  • Design teamDirk Somers, Pieter Eeckeloo, Erik Wieërs, Sarah Poot, Peter Wils, Annelien Grandry & Christoph Van Boxtel
  • LocationSchoten
  • Year2002 - 2008
  • ClientCommunity of Schoten
  • PhotographyFilip Dujardin