Historically, port areas were located within the city, but expansion forced them to move outwards. As a result, the port largely disappeared from the cityscape, whilst remaining economically vital. Today, the port is often associated with pollution and nuisance. The Ghent Port Authority is therefore using architecture to challenge this perception and re-establish a connection with the city. The building is situated at the interface between the city and the port, at the head of the Grootdok. From the quay, the view stretches three kilometres into the port, whilst the relationship with the city is also emphasised. The site is situated amidst various flows: harbour cranes, cruise ships, pedestrians and vehicle traffic, and serves as a recognisable landmark. The programme combines a visitor centre and a service building for skippers. Despite their contrasting characters-representative versus utilitarian-both functions are interwoven within a single volume. A well-thought-out circulation system ensures that they do not interfere with one another. Sustainability is central. The building is well insulated and finished to an airtight standard. A water-to-water heat pump using dock water provides heating and cooling. Sunshades limit overheating, whilst solar panels generate electricity. FSC-certified timber is used throughout the project, and rainwater is reused for sanitary purposes.