The USquare Brussels project is aiming to transform the former Fritz Toussaint barracks in Ixelles into an open, mixed-use, multi-functional district. This exemplary urban redevelopment project is supported by the Société d’Aménagement Urbain (SAU, Urban Development Corporation), in collaboration with ULB and VUB universities, as well as a number of architectural and technical partners. The first phase of the project, the buildings along Boulevard Général Jacques, is now complete. BC Architectes, a member of the cluster, showed us around the project.
Sustainable and circular construction:
- Reuse of materials: The project stands out for its reuse of the materials on site. Bricks and glazing from the dismantled buildings are converted into reused raw materials as soon as possible. The window sills now adorn the entrance to the hall in Building A.
- Bio-sourced materials: The integration of bio-sourced materials, such as lime, hemp and clay-based plaster, are contributing to the project’s sustainability. Research has been carried out to improve the acoustics in the meeting rooms.
- Innovative solutions: Floor insulation made of shells and the use of geothermal energy (see article) are examples of some of the innovative solutions that have been implemented to reduce the ecological footprint.
For BC Architects & Studies, this project has been a real chance to carry out studies and experimentation. Check out their feedback on our Instagram page.
In summary:
- Location: Ixelles
- Surface area: 9035 m²
- Budget: €16,700,000 (excl. VAT)
- Project owners: VUB, ULB, SAU/MSI
- Architects: evr-architecten + BC architects & studies
- Structure: VK engineers
- Restoration: Callebaut architecten
- Acoustic research: BC materials + Het Leemniscaat
