Den Bell

Den Bell is a large administrative building in Antwerp featuring a central tower and surrounding office buildings. The complex spreads across Francis Wellesplein and houses thousands of municipal staff members and their work areas.

The building started as a factory for the Bell Telephone Manufacturing Company, which opened its first foreign branch here in 1882. A notable architect designed the original complex in the late 1800s, before it was later transformed into an administrative center.

The building shows how its purpose shifted over time, from a factory to a modern administrative center. This transformation reflects how the city has reinvented its spaces and adapted them for new needs.

The site is accessible by public transport and has areas that open to visitors. When spending time here, allow enough time to explore the different parts of the complex.

The open staircase design in the tower is technically noteworthy and was specially modified during a major renovation. This solution shows how modern design was combined with practical needs.

Location: Antwerp

Architects: DMT Architecten, Styfhals & Partners, Jean-Laurent Hasse, Frank Blockx, Jan De Braey, Hugo Van Kuyck

Address: Francis Wellesplein 1

GPS coordinates: 51.20535,4.39874

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:00