Redevelopment of Tervuren's Ex-Royal Cavalry Barracks Begins

C+S Architects are presently working on a 100M rejuvenation project in the Panquin heritage site of Tervuren, located in Belgium. This stunning landscape is situated near the bustling capital of Brussels, and the initial stone has been placed to mark the commencement of the project.

The plan entails the renovation of the historic Ex-Royal Cavalry Barracks at Penguin, along with the construction of the Orangery, in order to create a high-end hotel with 108 guest rooms, restaurants, lounges, and a spa. These amenities will also be available to the local community. 

Additionally, four new residential and commercial buildings will be erected around the park and public spaces, providing unique experiences for both residents and visitors. These new structures include a grand square, a revitalized historic square, a large park with a new lake, and a smaller green space.

The foundation of the master plan is rooted in a thorough examination of historical documentation, which has been reimagined using modern techniques and values. For instance, a square that had been elevated in the past (as evidenced by historical maps) has been re-designed in a contemporary manner, concealing the unsightly parking spaces and SPA.

The public spaces within the project are interconnected and create a beautifully designed and accessible space for all. The design details of the facades have been given great consideration and are harmoniously integrated with the historic buildings, taking inspiration from key elements of the past and translating them into a contemporary style.

C+S has been dedicated to urban regeneration projects for over 25 years, believing in the principle of circularity and the importance of repurposing existing buildings. We prioritize the well-being of people and the planet, achieving sustainability through appropriate building orientation, geothermal energy, a central heating network, photovoltaic panels, thick insulation, and water recycling for irrigation and toilets. This ensures that the buildings are nearly energy-neutral.

On the occasion of the first stone laying Ceremony, Maria Alessandra Segantini talked about #circularity #sustainability #publicspace as a backbone for design to shape #placeforallpeople and give back the community a part of the city today inaccessible.

“We have always been particularly interested to address the relationship between the old and the new, creating a dialogue with the techniques of the past. With Tervuren urban regeneration project, we are honoured and proud to give back to the citizens a part of their city today inaccessible. We strongly believe in the power of a free, well-designed public domain to be activated by people, their memories, their dreams and their experiences, contributing to reinforcing the identity of the community and the roots for future generations”.

The presence of Minister Matthias Diependaele, who oversees Finance, Budget, Housing, and Immovable Heritage, as well as representatives from ION and PMV, along with Tervuren Mayor Marc Charlier, highlights the significance of heritage buildings and their rejuvenation in enhancing the character of communities. 

The demolition process is nearly finished, and the project is set to wrap up by the close of 2023.

* Press release and photos courtesy of C+S Architects*