Robbedoes

What started with a request to ZAmpone Architecture to treat concrete decay in the front façade of the Robbedoes nursery eventually led to a complete renovation and expansion. Four new living spaces and dormitories are located in a new semi-submerged building, where they are connected by a bright indoor playground. The ground floor of the existing nursery acts as the logistical hub. From here, the children can go to the new building at the lower level through a wooden 'observation post'/staircase, and employees can access the utility areas on the higher levels of the existing building. The meandering plan layout and folds in the roofs give the four living spaces a bright and dynamic appeal. The hilly roof landscape also stimulates the imagination of the children of the adjoining primary school, who have access to it during playtime. An elegant steel canopy protects them from the rain. The rooms slot together without any nooks and crannies being underused, even the usual residual spaces such as the roof and circulation zones have a dual purpose. This project offers a brilliant solution for the pressing challenges associated with contemporary Belgian urban development: how can we improve quality without sacrificing on light and spaciousness?

This project was opened on the occasion of the 2019 Day of Architecture. The text is based on a contribution by Kate Kerkhofs.