The City of Antwerp bought the existing buildings of the Red Star Line shipping company and decided to create a memorial that would retell the story of the people who emigrated from here. The protected monument got restored and a modern tower looking out over the River Scheldt was added to it. This tower gives the building visibility and enhances the visitor experience.
STRABAG Belgium was responsible for the restoration works on Red Star Line Phase 2. The project was a perfect combination of restoration and respectful new construction. The works included the restoration of the authentic brickwork, the roof structure, the doors, the windows and the infrastructure. Furthermore, some new elements such as new stairs, elevators and a panoramic tower of 30 meter were included into the project. The reference situation of the restoration was 1929: the brickwork, the cabinetwork and the paintings were brought back to this state. The original buildings are preserved as much as possible with a few new additions such as new floors for the technical rooms, a new tower and a panoramic viewing platform. This new platform is transparent and accessible by stairs and an elevator. The tower is made of decorative concrete and offers a great view over the banks of the river Scheldt, this is the place where the emigrants left for their American dream.
