Bioklas Fort V

The mud bricks that make up the internal walls of the biology classroom project by BC architects & studies are larger than usual. The unusual greyish-brown hue of the walls certainly exudes a military air, or could it be that this atmosphere derives from the fact that the classes are built in a warehouse that once belonged to the old line of defences around Antwerp? The plan – two rows of three rooms – leads one to suspect the system of measurements was quite strict. The openings between the rooms consist of archways in traditionally laid brickwork, inspired by the original massive arched vaults of the Fort. Even though the materials have been kept to a minimum and the range of forms is limited, the architects have succeeded in creating an outspoken characterful building.

BC architects & studies transforms self-build into an outlook on building and the construction process that is different in principle. To start with, the firm took over the production of the bricks themselves. The origin of the clay and the production process are part of the narrative.

In this way the Regional House itself reflects this educative and ecological approach through a radically sustainable and participative architecture.

This text is based on the essay of Eireen Schreurs, which has been published in the Flanders Architectural Review N°14. When Attitudes Take Form