Nestled just a few steps from the Wiels in Brussels, the iconic Atoma factory is set to unveil a spectacular transformation. Starting in October 2026, this industrial gem from the 1920s will reopen its doors after years of meticulous and eco-friendly renovation. Behind the large glass roofs of this 5,000 m² former paper mill lies a working-class heritage intimately linked to the history of Belgian design. From the secrets of its light-filled, raw architecture to its reinvention as an avant-garde hub, discover the new temple of contemporary creation, featuring artists’ studios, exhibition spaces, and a future trendy café.
From industrial gem to temple of art: the metamorphosis of a Brussels icon
A former paper mill dating back to the 1920s, the site is deeply intertwined with the history of the famous ATOMA notebook, a true icon of Belgian design. For nearly a century, this industrial building pulsed to the rhythm of intense production and innovation, and today it preserves a precious legacy of its working-class heritage. After three years of meticulous renovation, the challenge of the project was to revitalize this architectural heritage and give it a new purpose dedicated to contemporary artistic practices, while preserving its original spirit and its magnificent, light-filled spaces.
To breathe new life into this giant, the founders opted for an exemplary and eco-friendly renovation that respectsthe site’s aesthetic identity. The metal structures and large historic glass roofs have been restored and fitted with insulated double-pane windows. Inside, the renovation prioritizes reuse and materials with low environmental impact: bio-based insulation, removable partitions, and innovative building blocks. A perfect fusion of industrial heritage and green architecture.
The Atoma Art Center: artists’ studios, exhibitions, and a trendy café
Designed as an artistic incubator, the center breaks the mold by bringing creation and exhibition together under one roof. On the ground floor, the various exhibition halls host a curated program blending emerging artists and international collectives. Upstairs, the site features fifteen artist studios and coworking spaces that foster cross-disciplinary collaborations. This avant-garde hub builds a unique bridge between the Belgian andinternational art scenes. A trendy café will round out this vibrant space once the necessary permits are obtained.
This hybrid, collaborative space aims to become a fertile platform for dialogue open to the entire sector—from academics to collectors to critics. By making its spaces available to independent projects, the venue explores new ways of breaking down barriers in contemporary art. This future temple of culture is already shaping up to be the must-visit spot for inspiration, conversation, and relaxation in the heart of the capital.
📍 110 Rue Pierre Decoster, 1190 Forest
