An inspiring collaboration

Arcelor Mittal approached UGent with the request to use their buildings as study cases for a design exercise. The head office and one of the similar outbuildings were presented to students as challenging renovation projects. Although a programme of requirements (PVE) was drawn up, students were given the freedom to make their own design choices within a sustainable and circular framework.

The renovation

The façade consisted of minimally insulated steel profiles, constructed at the time from so-called ‘chair profiles’. Although typical of the building style of the 1970s, after decades these profiles were subject to corrosion and covered with a thick layer of paint.

Initially, the students considered a thorough approach: complete dismantling, cleaning and refurbishing of the existing profiles. In the end, they opted for a less risky and more practical solution:

Inserting an attachment profile: An attachment profile from Jansen was added to the existing steel profiles. This put the original profiles in an indoor environment, greatly reducing the impact of corrosion. Local repairs were sufficient.
Replacement of opening sections: The old window sections were replaced with thermal-performance wooden joinery elements sandwiched into the façade system.

The result is a façade that meets modern thermal requirements while minimising environmental impact.

Practical tests

To test the feasibility of their design, the students enlisted Lootens' expertise. This collaboration resulted not only in valuable advice, but also in the realisation of a physical mock-up, which allowed the structural details and performance of the renovated façade to be tested.

A sustainable future

This project illustrates how innovative renovation and sustainability can go hand in hand. The students succeeded in designing a completely new facade with a minimum of new material.

The collaboration between UGent and Lootens shows the power of knowledge sharing and creativity.

The success of this exercise provides inspiration for future projects that focus on sustainability and innovation.

Let's keep building a greener future together!