Residence De Vakschool

Adjacent to the site is a public garden whose transition to the building gives a desolated impression. dmvA therefore focuses on integration architecture in which a new contemporary building forms a landmark and balances the height between the parallel streets. The steep roof is an archetypal reference to the history of Aarschot, such as the Main Square and ‘s Hertogen mills. Between the new building and the park, a public outdoor staircase is created that forms a shortcut next to the building block and makes a connection to the existing urban fabric of footpaths. With a gradual transition from public to semi-public space to private space, the stairs enhance the accessibility of the area and strengthen the urban fabric.

Since the original courtyard is shaded by the high adjacent buildings, dmvA has opted to place the new courtyard one level higher, making it airier and lighter. The semi-public space is accessed via the exterior staircase and via an alley with a gate. The ground floor apartments located under the courtyard are conceived as patio houses so that they receive sufficient light and air.