Cultural center BRUIS

from bank building to vibrant cultural center of Bladel

Bladel now has a new cultural heartbeat – a hub for culture, community, and connection. The former bank building on the town square has been transformed by GROUP A, in collaboration with Fabrique and ABT, into a lively cultural hub featuring a theater, library, café and space for more than 45 clubs and associations. BRUIS is the result of a co-creation process with the Municipality of Bladel and Den Herd.

A striking silhouette on the square
The intervention at the front of the building marks a new chapter in its history. Above the entrance on the market side, a striking new volume has been added with a panoramic hall and balconies that literally break through the existing façade. This combined with a wooden canopy set in a slender steel frame, defines the new identity of BRUIS. Large floor-to-ceiling windows create transparency and an inviting presence toward the square. The building fits seamlessly within the modest scale and fine structure of the town center.

Liveliness all around – including the backside
The newly added volume at the back of the building accommodates a multifunctional hall. Large windows offer a glimpse into the cultural activities inside from the street. From within, the space engages with the surrounding neighborhood. Openings in the façade, subtle material transitions, and a playful roofline help the building blend with the village environment. The theater’s friendly character emerges from a refined façade composition, gentle angles, rich surface depth and a solid rendered base. Loading docks and technical spaces are thoughtfully integrated without compromising the building’s open character.

The atrium as connecting heart
At the core of BRUIS is a spacious atrium that connects all of the building’s functions – both old and new. This light-filled, open space encourages spontaneous encounters and social interaction among its diverse users. Large wooden staircases lead to the library and panoramic hall. With sightlines and intermediate spaces, there is a spot for every visitor—from secluded nooks to public areas. By relocating supporting functions to the basement of the new rear volume, space has been created for air, light and flow in the heart of the building.

A flexible hall for every occasion
The new multifunctional hall is designed as a flexible space for a wide range of cultural and social activities: from theater and dance to workshops, dinners and meetings. A retractable tribune and adjustable stage elements allow the space to adapt to different needs. A balanced mix of reflective and sound-absorbing acoustic panels, along with curtains, accommodates a diverse range of performances.

Sustainable and circular
BRUIS is a prime example of sustainable reuse. The original structure of the former bank has largely been preserved, significantly reducing material use and CO₂ emissions. Materials from demolished sections – such as window frames, ductwork, masonry and equipment – have been reused. The building is made energy-efficient with air/water heat pumps, rainwater storage and high-grade insulation, making it ready for a sustainable future.

Created through co-creation
The design came to life step by step through close collaboration with users, the municipality and other stakeholders. That sense of shared ownership is reflected in every detail of the building. BRUIS is not just a cultural center – it’s a shared home for the entire Bladel community.

BRUIS is more than a building. It’s the tangible result of a shared ambition: to create a welcoming place where sustainability and community go hand in hand.

Maarten van Bremen, partner and architect

Facts

Client

Gemeente Bladel / Den Herd

Assignment

Renovation, transformation and new build

Location

Markt, Bladel

Area

8.411 m2

Function

Cultural center with theater, library and café

Start design

September 2020

Start construction

Juni 2023

Completed

April 2025

In collaboration with

ABT, Velp and Fabrique, Amsterdam

Photography

DigiDaan

The makers of this project

Maarten van Bremen

Maarten van Bremen

maarten@groupa.nl Architect | Partner

Sebastian Bok

Sebastian Bok

sebastian@groupa.nl Architect

Sophie Dogterom

Sophie Dogterom

sophie@groupa.nl Architect

Dennis Berger

Dennis Berger

dennis@groupa.nl Architect

Federica Padovani

Federica Padovani

federica@groupa.nl Urban designer

Perry Klootwijk

Perry Klootwijk

perry@groupa.nl Architect | Projectleader

Lolke Ket

Lolke Ket

lolke@groupa.nl Architect | Projectleader

Laura Onnis

Laura Onnis

laura@groupa.nl Architect and visual artist

Brigitte van der Tuin

Brigitte van der Tuin

brigitte@groupa.nl Interior architect

Raymond Leentvaar

Raymond Leentvaar

raymond@groupa.nl Interior | Projectleader

Boyuan Shi

Boyuan Shi

boyuan@groupa.nl Architect

External stakeholders

Engineer

ABT

Brand strategist

Fabrique