Since 2012, the a2o radar studio has been investigating numerous heritage sites to explore innovative methods for their re-adaptation. Our research is defined by a two-pronged methodology that integrates spatial and historical analysis with a parallel programmatic research. Equally crucial is our participatory design process, fostering dialogue among policymakers, site owners, researchers, heritage experts, developers, and often the wider community. This collaborative approach allows us to identify and unlock the potential of these significant buildings, ensuring their enduring relevance in the 21st century. By understanding the interplay between the past, present, and future—and by prioritizing the long-term viability of the structure itself—we facilitate transitions that honor the heritage while creating vibrant and sustainable new uses. We not only provide design solutions but also actively engage in building the partnerships and momentum necessary to realize a site's revitalized future.
List of heritage studies that are part of the program:
2020
- Klooster Landen - Herbestemming Zusters van Maria: feasibility and volume study
- Refugiehuis Kloosters Zusters Ursulinen Sint-Truiden - feasibility and volume study
- Groot Huys Zusters Ursulinen Herk-de-Stad - feasibility and volume study
2019
- Sint-Jozefscollegekerk Borgloon - renovation of the school with re-use of the chapel
- Herbestemming Klooster Deftingen - Repurposing of the convent of the Sisters of the Holy Vincent de Paul.
2018
- Herbestemming site Hemelrijk Hasselt - Master plan study for the 'Hemelrijk' site in Hasselt and a repurposing study for the development of a socio-educational campus.
- Herbestemming Klooster Oosterzele - Replacement of the St. Francis House Caritas (residential care center).
2017
- Angelahof - Repurposing of the former Ursuline convent with the construction of a new residential care center, assisted living units and a grand café
2016
- Kerk en pastorie Guigoven - Feasibility study for the repurposing of the parish church and rectory into a community space and workshop, while preserving the sacred core.
- Pacheco Instituut - Repurposing of the Pacheco Institute into a housing project with care rooms, student rooms, and modest dwellings (design competition, not selected).
- Kerk Mettekoven - Participatory research project for the repurposing of the parish church into a community space and columbarium, while preserving the sacred core.
- Sint-Trudo Abdij - Preparation of a feasibility study and management plan for the former Sint-Trudo Abbey.
2015
- Clarissenklooster - Repurposing and new construction of assisted living units, student rooms, and care rooms.
- Kloosterdomein Mariahof - New construction and renovation of assisted living units on an existing convent domain.
- Picpussen Tongeren - Repurposing study for the 'picpussen-school' in Tongeren.
- Woonzorgcentrum en meisjesinternaat - Repurposing of a convent into a residential care center and a girls' boarding school (design competition, not selected).
- Kerk Vliermaalroot - Feasibility study for the repurposing of the parish church into a multipurpose neighborhood space, while preserving the religious core.
- Zorgcampus Kruisheren Diest - Creation of a care campus (design competition, not selected).
Before 2012
- Clarenhof - Repurposing of the former Clarissen convent into a residential care center, service flats, a grand café, and an internal meeting room in the former chapel.
- Alden Biesen - Creation of a master plan and subprojects (restoration of gardens, parks, domain, castle, reconstruction, facilities, etc.) for the international culture and congress center.
