Light and fresh air make visitors forget all about old and dusty libraries
Aalst, Belgium
Location
Refurbishment
Project type
KAAN Architecten
Architect
Groep Van Roey (contractor) MEIRE NV (installer)
Further participants
2018
Project year
A former military school has been transformed into a modern city library and performing arts academy
By using raw concrete, light walls and roof, the building is turned into a relaxing haven for the residents of the Flemish city of Aalst in Belgium.
This new cultural hub and architectural landmark is called Utopia and is an 8.000 square meters modern building.
Outside, the building blends into the urban fabric through its unassuming red brick facade. Inside, it makes a bold architectural statement on the benefits of shared-space learning.
The library, rehearsal studios, auditoriums and teaching spaces are intimately connected by a patchwork of vast windows, often as high and wide as the rooms themselves.
VELUX modular skylights have improved the indoor air quality and increased the reading and learning environment for the visitors of the building.
The openness of the building exudes sustainability, and the building has achieved a BREEAM Excellent rating.
Building certificate
Products used in project
1 × Atrium Longlight
Quantity of modules: 64
Atrium Longlight/Ridgelight
Multiple rows of skylight modules that can be combined to create a large glass roof.
