Since the summer of 2023, we have merged our two offices into one location in Ghent: Goedefroo Architects. This new office marks an important phase in our evolution, in which we have further refined our vision and put our focus on harmony. Our team is always looking for creative solutions to complex architectural issues and has realised projects in Belgium, France, Italy and the Netherlands in recent decades. We have specialised in public facilities, the repurposing of industrial heritage, utility construction, urban planning and sports infrastructure.
The redevelopment of our new office, a historic building on Koningin Astridlaan in Ghent, is the perfect example of how we deal with the built environment and existing structures. It is not only about the functional repurposing of the building, but also about optimising mobility, strengthening the connection with urban dynamics, renovating heritage buildings in a sustainable and energy-efficient way, adding extra floors via circular construction methods, and creating openings in massive volumes to generate light and space for greenery. All these choices, together with our constant search for wonder, form the foundation of our work.
Harmony is at the core of our design process. It’s about creating spaces that are in balance with their surroundings, where people, nature, and buildings come together in a symbiotic whole. For us, harmony means that each project is carefully considered, respecting the history and identity of the site, while also addressing the needs of the future.
This pursuit of harmony is reflected not only in the aesthetic choices we make but also in how we approach sustainability and functionality. We integrate natural elements into our designs, ensure optimal use of light and space, and choose materials and construction methods that are both ecologically and economically responsible. It’s an approach that goes beyond the superficial beauty of a building; it’s about creating an environment that benefits people, contributes to their well-being, and minimizes the ecological footprint.
In our projects, we always strive to find a symbiosis between the building and its environment. Whether it’s respecting the original features of a historic building or designing new structures that seamlessly integrate into their urban context, harmony remains central. It is this commitment to creating a balanced, sustainable, and livable environment that makes our work meaningful and leaves a lasting impact on the places we transform.
At Goedefroo Architects, we embrace a forward-thinking approach to building. By using Archicad, a powerful BIM (Building Information Modeling) software, on a daily basis, we are able to manage our projects more efficiently and effectively. This method ensures seamless integration of design, planning, and execution, allowing us to create detailed 3D models of buildings. These models are not only visually accurate but also contain extensive information about materials, dimensions, and technical specifications, enabling us to optimally manage every aspect of the project.
One of the greatest advantages of working with a BIM method is the ability to collaborate in real time. It allows our team to work simultaneously on the same model, minimizing errors and improving communication. Additionally, it provides us with powerful tools for managing data, enabling us to quickly implement changes and immediately see their impact throughout the entire project. In a world where efficiency, collaboration, and sustainability are increasingly important, Archicad gives us the tools to realize projects not only faster but also smarter and more sustainably.
