Veterinary School in Anderlecht: A Sustainable Transformation by HASA Architecten

The Veterinary School in Anderlecht, a historic landmark in the heart of the Cureghem quarter in Brussels, has undergone a remarkable transformation after more than two decades of abandonment. Redesigned by HASA Architecten, the 4,098 m² heritage structure is now a vibrant business and conference center, positioned to support the district’s economic revival while preserving the building’s cultural significance.

Reviving a Heritage Landmark with Purpose

Originally built as an academic veterinary institution, the building is deeply rooted in the identity of the Cureghem neighborhood. The architects approached the renovation with a heritage-first mindset, rethinking the client’s functional program to align with the existing structural layout. Key spaces were reprogrammed:

• Auditorium and restaurant placed within the grand academic halls on the 2nd floor
• Office spaces integrated across the ground floor, first floor, and attic
• Meeting rooms relocated to the basement, illuminated via two newly excavated daylight patios

This approach maintained the integrity of the original circulation and spatial hierarchy while adapting it for contemporary use.

A Reversible, Respectful Architectural Intervention

To meet modern safety regulations without damaging the historic fabric, HASA Architecten designed freestanding external fire escape staircases on both sides of the building. These mesh-wire structures connect to a cantilevered bridge, accessed through two converted window openings. Importantly, this entire intervention is fully reversible, ensuring no permanent alteration to the protected building.

The renovation prioritizes reversible design and minimal intrusion, reflecting a deep respect for preservation principles.

Energy-Efficient and Environmentally Conscious Design

The project sets a new benchmark for sustainable restoration. Through strategic upgrades: including internal façade insulation, energy-efficient lighting, and advanced building technologies, the building’s heating demand dropped from 200 kWh/m²a to just 45 kWh/m²a. This achievement earned the project recognition as the first listed low-energy building in the Brussels Capital Region.

Such meticulous interventions ensured:

• Protection of historic finishes
• Reduction of the building’s ecological footprint
• Long-term operational sustainability

Sustainable Material Reuse and Circular Construction

HASA Architecten maximized the reuse of on-site materials. Elements that could not be reinstalled were offered in a public market, allowing neighbors, craftsmen, contractors, and resellers to purchase them, an approach that promoted community engagement and circular construction.

This thoughtful reuse strategy reflects an innovative blend of resource conservation, social participation, and material authenticity.

Sensitive Integration of Past and Present

The renovation avoids stark contrasts. Instead, the architects introduced subtle, contemporary layers using materials and color tones that echo the original character of the building. These careful interventions ensure a harmonious dialogue between historical craftsmanship and modern functionality.

The result is a space that feels both timeless and rejuvenated, celebrating the building’s academic origins while serving new cultural and economic roles for the community.

A Model for Sustainable Heritage Renovation

The Veterinary School in Anderlecht stands as a powerful example of how adaptive reuse can revitalize heritage architecture. Through energy efficiency, material reuse, reversibility, and contextual design, HASA Architecten demonstrated a future-forward approach to conservation, one that protects history while supporting urban regeneration.

All photographs are works of  Tim Van de Velde