Les Ateliers des Tanneurs has breathed new life into the old industrial buildings that have fallen into disuse. As a venue for cultural events, the space is a centre for social economic enterprises that are adding to the vitality of the Marolles district.
- 09 September 2021
'The renovation work has made it possible for Les Ateliers des Tanneurs to retain all its character. The site has become a centre of economic and social activity and a driving force for the district’s development.'
Les Ateliers des Tanneurs is a vast Art Nouveau complex covering nearly 8 000 m2 that is home to start-ups, event venues, an organic market and a restaurant.
The renovation of the two 19th century industrial buildings was an initiative of the Public Centre for Social Welfare (CPAS) in the City of Brussels. What was once a wine and textile trading centre, then abandoned, has evolved into a social economy centre that has revitalised the neighbourhood.
A social economy centre
Around fifty entrepreneurs have made it their home. The objective of the site is to stimulate economic activity and create local jobs. In exchange for advantageous rates, the companies who have established themselves there have undertaken, with help from the centre's teams, to create new jobs and train local people and those who receive assistance from CPAS.
Priority is given to eco-responsible start-ups. At the Atelier des Tanneurs, companies benefit from coaching, sharing of experiences, and activities that encourage exchanges and interactions, such as speed dating and potluck meals.
A tourism drawcard
Behind the long polychrome façade, in the rooms and the two bright halls, various professional, festive and cultural events are held, such as the Biennial Art Nouveau Exhibition or Heritage Days.
Tourists are starting to visit what was previously a priority neighbourhood. At the organic market, located in the market hall that dates back to 1902, locals find products grown in their neighbourhood. At a micro-greens centre, seedlings are grown under LED lights.
The dynamism of these activities, in such a large renovated space, has made the Atelier des Tanneurs a flagship for the district's socio-economic development policy.
Total investment and European funding
Total investment for the "Les Ateliers des Tanneurs (Palais du Vin)" project is EUR 8 752 849; the contribution of the European Regional Development Fund amounts to EUR 3 803 161 under the "ERDF" cooperation programme for the 2000–2006 programming period. The investment falls under the priority of "Enhancing the competitiveness of SMEs".