De Centrale Ghent – rooflights with smoke vents.

De Centrale in Ghent is a former power generation facility that historically supplied electricity to the city of Ghent. The facility was originally operated as a coal-fired power station.

The main turbine hall retains its original generating equipment and machinery, including the historic generators. The building therefore constitutes a significant example of Ghent’s industrial heritage and retains substantial elements of its original industrial character.

Renewal of 18 rooflights

As part of the energy renovation works, the roof structure will undergo comprehensive refurbishment.

• The main roof incorporates 18 large rooflights, comprising a total of 36 smoke vents. These rooflights provide natural daylight to the production hall and will be fully replaced and upgraded to improve their thermal and energy performance as part of the overall roof renovation.
• The lower-level flat roof will also be refurbished. In 2027, a further three rooflights will be replaced, with the new assemblies replicating the original design and proportions.

The existing rooflight structures will be replaced with new steel-framed profile systems. These assemblies provide a contemporary technical solution while preserving the characteristic architectural appearance of the historic industrial hall.

From single to double glazing

The original single glazing will be replaced with high-performance insulating double glazing. This upgrade will significantly improve the thermal performance of the rooflights, supporting the overall energy-efficiency objectives of the refurbished roof.

The visual appearance of the glazing is equally important. The selected patterned glass is designed to closely replicate the appearance of the original wired glass, ensuring that the renewed rooflights remain visually compatible with the historic character of De Centrale.

Integrating Technology and Heritage

The installation of the new rooflights forms an integral part of the overall roof renovation. The combination of a new steel rooflight structure, high-performance insulating glazing and historically inspired glass detailing provides a durable and energy-efficient solution that is carefully integrated into the existing architectural context.