Revitalized site
A cultural pole named ABŸ has one central aim: to create a lasting cultural dynamic that respects history on a revitalized site. To this end, it relies on a design by the architectural firms a practice (Brussels) and :mlzd (Biel, Switzerland), in collaboration with Bureau Bouwtechniek (Antwerp). The whole is driven by the Brussels public building expert Beliris. The project includes restoration, renovation and new construction.
Historic buildings in semicircle
The restoration and complete renovation includes the historic buildings in a semicircle. A new building will be constructed for the French-language municipal library and toy library. The existing buildings will be insulated to meet current standards, while the new buildings will meet passive standards. In this way, the 12th-century Abbey of Forest (and its associated gardens in the center of the municipality) should be restored to its splendor. The abbey was partially rebuilt in 1764 by architect Laurent-Benoît Dewez, but over the past few decades the buildings had become increasingly disused, necessitating a reconsideration of their use and layout. The community of Forest had taken over the remains of the abbey in 1964, which was listed in 1994.
In the long term, the cultural pole ABŸ wants to go toward the creation of a new theater and a youth center. The gardens will also be redeveloped; 400 new trees will be planted here. Once the project is completed, the residents of Forest and various cultural institutions will have access to an infrastructure of nearly 9,000 square meters, harmoniously distributed around the former honor courtyard. The intention is for the site to become a place of individual and collective development. Through its infrastructure and gardens, it should contribute to a better coexistence.
Various phases
Work is being done in three phases, according to the three areas being redeveloped. First is the demolition of an old restaurant, construction of the French-language library and renovation of the exterior of the south wing. The works would reportedly take three years.
“We aim to translate existing and listed heritage into contemporary standards,” states one at Bureau Bouwtechniek. “In this way, it has to meet current use requirements without losing its authentic charm. Thus, we want to harmoniously connect the new building parts, such as the library and the existing buildings. This requires a careful integration of restoration and renovation, implanting new functions in existing buildings. It goes without saying that we don’t want to leave any details touched in the process.”
Total cost
The total cost of the work is estimated at €21,682,261 (VAT included). The project receives financial support from the Brussels Capital Region (through the Sustainable Neighborhood Contract Abbey and the Cultural Heritage Department), the Wallonia-Brussels Federation and the European Union through the ERDF program.
Images © a practice
