Office Goedefroo
The project is located on Koningin Astridlaan in Ghent, near the Gent-Sint-Pieters station and Citadel Park, and is characterized by a classic early 20th-century facade. Behind this traditional facade lies a 1960s concrete structure, featuring beams and floors that span the entire space. The first step in the reconversion of this building was to strip it back to its sustainable core, exposing the original materials such as concrete and brickwork.
The greatest challenge of this project was ensuring sufficient daylight penetration, given the depth of the building within the block. This challenge was addressed by creating a central patio around which the various spaces are organized. This intervention not only allows abundant natural light to enter but also introduces a lush green oasis at the heart of the building, enhancing the work environment.
The new structural additions were constructed using CLT (Cross-Laminated Timber). This lightweight and highly circular material is ideal for a reconversion of this scale. CLT introduces a softness and warmth to the interior, contrasting with the previously dominant hard materials like concrete and brick. Adjacent to the patio, a staircase made of CLT has been installed, connecting the different levels. This staircase was meticulously designed to maximize transparency, with open steps and transparent railings, allowing daylight to penetrate deep into the stairwell and encouraging movement throughout the building.