It used to be the local law courts. But the lawyers and judges have moved on from the monumental 19th-century courthouse on Antwerp’s Turnhoutsebaan.
The magnificent interiors have been preserved and the building has been taken over by locals as a creative hub.
The stately rooms on the ground floor have been turned into an alternative concept store (open Wednesday to Saturday). Here you find 20 or so stalls selling house plants, sustainable fashion, ecological food and barista coffee.
The upper floors are dedicated to temporary exhibitions by young artists and photographers, along with readings and performances.
The centre also rents out cheap spaces where local start-ups can get their business concept off the ground.
Derek Blyth’s hidden secret of the day: Derek Blyth is the author of the bestselling “The 500 Hidden Secrets of Belgium”. He picks out one of his favourite hidden secrets for The Brussels Times every day.
