Havenhuis (Port House)

The Havenhuis (Port House) is the extraordinary headquarters of the Antwerp Port Authority, situated at the Zaha Hadidplein—a square named after its renowned architect. Completed in 2016, it is an architectural icon that commands attention on the boundary between the historic city and the vast industrial harbor.

Pritzker Prize-winning designer Dame Zaha Hadid ingeniously fused an abandoned, 95-year-old fire station with a spectacular, futuristic extension. A glittering structure resembling a shimmering glass ship or an immense diamond rests atop the classical heritage building, brilliantly reflecting Antwerp’s long-standing nickname as a global capital of diamond trade.

The building's dynamic façade changes appearance depending on the sunlight and viewing angle, projecting an image of the Port of Antwerp as an innovative, world-class hub. While the striking exterior can be admired freely from the surrounding docks, the Port Authority offers guided tours that provide access to the sleek interior and sweeping, elevated views of the city skyline and harbor cranes.