Herbestemming Chocoladefabriek

a2o Architects redeveloped an early 20th century chocolate factory in Nerem-Tongeren into a residential building with 17 different dwelling types. This conversion is situated in an accessible park landscape designed by BuroLandschap. The architects incorporated various dwellings into the historic concrete structure from facade to facade. Respecting this existing structure, façade openings, outdoor and circulation spaces were positioned in the building. The houses on the ground floor have individual front doors that open onto the park landscape. At ground level and in the tower, the dwellings also connect to collective spaces (the monumental entrance and former workshop). Having created a support base, the architects have given the factory a new place in the community. They informed, consulted and instilled enthusiasm for the project into the local community. The concept uses the architecture, cultural history and social appreciation of the former factory to offer an alternative to the contextless, individualized urbanisation of villages.

This text is based on the project text provided by the architects.