The project site is situated between Hasselt's inner and outer ring roads, along the Maastrichtersteenweg. This road is a crucial artery in the city characterized by a dense mix of terraced houses and medium-height apartment buildings. VJC stands out as a rare break in this continuous urban fabric. On its other side, it abuts Theresiastraat, leading to a tranquil neighborhood where flats and row houses intermingle, contributing to a peaceful local traffic flow.
The existing condition of the site presented both challenges and opportunities. Several existing building volumes, accumulated over time, possess unique architectural qualities. However, their prominent location toward Theresiastraat led to traffic concerns and disruptions to local residents, particularly during school hours. Addressing this concern was a primary consideration from the outset of the design process. Furthermore, the verdant inner garden, serving as a sanctuary for the campus, adds vibrancy to Maastrichtersteenweg. Preserving this green space was a key priority during the extension design.
To safeguard the green interior space, the new building's total volume is divided into two separate structures. The existing management wing was demolished to accommodate a new construction volume, maintaining a footprint akin to the original structure. The footprint of the second new building volume is also minimized to preserve the greenery. Moreover, dividing the new construction volumes ensures the retention of the connection between the green zone and Maastrichtersteenweg.
The partial repositioning of the site boundary creates a front zone for the school, while opening up the current park area to the public domain establishes a safe and inviting public space where students can congregate after school. This endeavor also fosters a public resting spot along Maastrichtersteenweg.
The new volumes face the public zone, offering an opportunity to redefine VJC's aesthetic. This reconfiguration divides the green zone into distinct areas, transitioning from private to public space. Relocating the main entrance to the green zone and consolidating administrative spaces in the new building on Theresiastraat create a unified access point for students, staff, and visitors.
Classrooms will be housed in both new volumes, allowing for clustering based on subject groups. These classrooms will feature an open design facing the inner garden, fostering an optimal learning environment. Flexible classrooms will facilitate experimentation with alternative teaching methods.
Additionally, the new volume on Maastrichtersteenweg will include multifunctional space for autonomous use, accessible to third parties outside of school hours. Placing this space on the periphery enables external utilization without granting unrestricted access to the entire campus.
