On the edge of the city of Ghent, in between the ring road and a nature reserve stood a dilapidated apartment block. The building - an isolated volume that did not connect with its neighbours – was to be replaced by 44 ground-level homes. From an ecological viewpoint and because the structure still had clear potential, we convinced the client to not demolish the existing volume, and instead opt for a thorough renovation and a small expansion.
site plan
The existing building was completely stripped and internally reorganized, only the circulation cores were kept. Next, the apartments – previously all mono-oriented – were transformed into 44 transversal duplexes, each comprised of day- and night compartments. These duplex apartments form a complex three-dimensional puzzle within the existing rigid structure.
ground floor plan
On both sides of the renovated building block, two free-standing volumes, each comprising 6 housing units for large families, are added. External passerelles link the two additions to the main building, thus ridding them of internal circulation and ensuring maximal connectivity. They are lower in height, softening the transition to the scale of the surroundings, and stand closer to the street, creating a small, but welcoming entrance garden.
first floor plan
typical floor plan
In the new configuration,
the full depth of the building is utilized. A green and light steel structure
adorns the entire west façade, creating generous balconies which serve as
extensions of the living rooms.
In Nekkersput, any distinction between a front and back façade is an artificial one, since, through the green structure, a shared spatiality spreads across the entire west façade. The continuous balconies balance collectivity and individuality, being at the same time personally appropriable, as well as functioning as meeting space for the inhabitants.
Program: renovation and extension for 56 residential units for social housing
Location: Ghent
Procedure: competition
Client: SHM De Gentse Haard
Surface: 11.235 m²
Structural engineer: Sileghem & Partners
Technical engineer: Tech3
Acoustical engineer: Bureau De Fonseca
Photography: Filip Dujardin