ICONIC magazine #9 - EN

Unparalleled experience

Château La Coste is located in a large domain in Aix-en-Provence with more than 200 hectares of vineyards, olive groves and forest.

Meet our new COO

For seven years, Hanne Dekeukeleire could be found on ION's shop floor. Having started here as a lawyer, she moved on to head our team, before most recently becoming COO.

Hanne Dekeukeleire COO-pilot

Looking for things that can be done better: it’s just in my nature. That’s something that comes in handy as COO of a company like ION. It’s no secret that we always strive for the best, the craziest and the most beautiful.

Evolution and growth

Over the past seven years, I have watched the company grow and evolve, getting to know it inside and out. The level of ambition that was here when I first started working at ION is still there today. It impressed me then and continues to motivate me every day. My greatest challenge? The switch from an operational to a leadership role. Now, it energizes me. However, this wasn't always the case. Good coordination is a learning process. If there’s a fire somewhere, my first instinct is to go put it out myself. That being said, it doesn't hurt to hand the fire hose over to someone else either. The fact is, it’s necessary to divide and assign tasks to the right people. This is the only way you can grow as a business.

And growth is something we are all too familiar with. With this already being the ninth edition of this magazine, so much has changed over the years. But there are also issues that still require our attention – especially when it comes to sustainability. Society

needs to make a switch, and it’s up to us to help make that a reality. This is something we’re working hard towards,putting maximum effort into sustainable techniques to cool and heat our buildings. At our construction sites, we're replacing diesel engines with sustainable batteries. We've changed the way we think about our designs, with an eye to making them more sustainable. In short, we’re already taking the day the building is torn down into account, so that materials can be appropriately reused. This is a topic I could go on and on about. We know that sustainability is about more than just installing solar panels and heat pumps, as set out in this issue by our colleague Steven Willems.

World Cities

Another thing we don't shy away from is our passion for architecture. You can see it in our projects. With ICONIC, we are happy to provide inspiration with some eye-catching architectural gems. From a luxury hotel in Dubai to a large estate in Aix-en-Provence, where you can explore Tadao Ando's Art Center or Frank Gehry's Pavillon de Musique.

While an ION project may not yet be in the works for Dubai – never say never! We tend to draw inspiration from major cities around the world. Sometimes, we don't even have to

look that far: say hello to Amsterdam. How do our northern neighbors manage to seamlessly integrate residential living spaces into busy tourist areas? Find it out on page eight!

Work hard...

Of course, we also owe the growth in recent years to our amazing employees. There is a perception that, at ION, the hard work never stops. Yes, we work hard. But our company also has an incredible human quality about it. We do everything we can to make sure everyone feels good at work. This ranges from friendly chats in the corridors to outside coaching to help anyone struggling with their work-life balance. As part of my new position, my door is always open. I'm grateful for the trust Davy, Kristof, and Paul have placed in me, along with all the support from my colleagues. I'm ready for the ride! And without any further ado, time to explore the magazine. Happy reading!

Hanne Dekeukeleire COO

'Even after seven years, I am still convinced of ION's high level of ambition.

Amsterdam

Netherlands in the top 20

The Netherlands is doing quite well in terms of sustainability, and not just the city of Amsterdam. That's because they are committed to clean energy. They have set the bar high for themselves by committing to ambitious goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and accelerate the transition towards renewable energy sources.

The Sustainable Development Goals Index, which measures countries' performance on sustainable development, placed the Netherlands 17th out of 163 countries surveyed in 2022.

Sustainable living in Amsterdam

The Dutch capital has many sustainable construction projects. Good for the environment and the well-being of the inhabitants.

While the available space in Amsterdam continues to shrink, demand for housing and infrastructure continues to grow. Consequently, sustainable (residential) projects are becoming a crucial step in reducing the environmental impact of urban development. Amsterdam is taking the initiative with the "Amsterdam Approach to Sustainable Living" (AADW). This program aims to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions of homes in Amsterdam by providing homeowners with financial and technical support. Investing in energyefficient homes not only reduces cities' carbon footprint, it also improves the quality of life for its residents. Amsterdam clearly knows its stuff.

Pakhuis de Zwijger

Pakhuis de Zwijger was built in 1933 and served as a warehouse for goods such as coffee, cocoa, and tobacco. In 2006, the building was transformed into an innovative center for creativity and culture. One of the biggest goals of the renovation? To reduce its carbon footprint.

Today, Pakhuis de Zwijger plays host to numerous cultural and social activities such as exhibitions, debates, lectures, workshops, and festivals. It’s a place where people meet, share ideas and create new partnerships.

A great deal of attention was paid to sustainability, installing solar panels and investing in an efficient water management system, for example. They also made environmentally conscious decisions for the building's interior were made from water-saving toilets to biodegradable tableware. Everything is about minimizing environmental impact.

Valley Valley in Amsterdam – you can't miss it. This innovative and sustainable complex in the heart of Amsterdam-Zuid provides space for offices, housing, retail, and hospitality, rendering it as multifunctional as it is aesthetically pleasing.

Valley Amsterdam was designed is by architecture firm MVRDV. The building consists of three towers, connected by a spectacular atrium that forms the beating heart of the building.

It not only stands out for its impressive architecture, but also for its level of sustainability.

It is designed to leave a minimal carbon footprint. This is evident in its use of sustainable materials, solar panels, and rainwater harvesting.

Besides its sustainable credentials, this project also has a spectacular roof garden of no less than 1,200 square meters (1,300 square feet). It feels unreal, enjoying such a green oasis in the middle of the city, completed with the impressive Amsterdam skyline.

The new Stedelijke Museum

The Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam is one of the largest museums of modern and contemporary art and design in the Netherlands. The museum was recently expanded with a new wing. The building is also known as "De Badkuip" (The Bathtub) because of its distinctive shape.

"De Badkuip," designed by Dutch architect Mels Crouwel, is an impressive feat of modern architecture. The concrete facade is covered with a layer of glossy white ceramic, giving the building a striking, almost futuristic look.

The building's interior is as impressive as its exterior. The floors and walls are clad in sleek, modern materials such as concrete and steel, creating an overall industrial look. The spaces are bright and open, allowing the artworks to fully stand out.

'Sustainable projects are crucial to reduce the impact of urban development on the environment.

Amsterdam Approach to Sustainable Living

The program aims to reduce the energy consumption and CO2 emissions of homes in the city by supporting homeowners financially and technically.

Lieven de Key HQ

The Lieven de Key HQ is a modern and sustainable office building located in the west of Amsterdam. The building is named after famous Dutch architect Lieven de Key, who contributed immensely to the architecture of Amsterdam during the 16th and 17th centuries.

The Lieven de Key HQ was designed by Dutch architectural firms Rijnboutt and VenhoevenCS. It is composed of a series of square modules, stacked together like Lego blocks. The interior of the building is as impressive as the exterior. It is designed as an open space with an abundance of natural light and greenery. The modules are equipped with green facades and solar panels, giving the building a sustainable character, while also making it more efficient.

© Frans Parthesius — Architect: Studioninedots

Spotted, checked & approved

Be amazed by some of our staff’s inspirational tips. An original Instagram account, a creative design, or an inspiring trade fair? We are happy to share five great tips with you!

SPOTTED

— Colored Aluminum

Tour Hekla is a 220-meter (722 feet), 48-story skyscraper being built in La Défense, Paris. Jean Nouvel's design is characterized by its prismatic glass and metal facade using Sandalor® colored aluminum. It will be the tallest tower in La Défense, as well as the second tallest building in France. It will undoubtedly offer one of the most spectacular views in all of Paris. tour-hekla.com

Matuvu glass dome

Place Matuvu in Knokke is set to have an underground parking lot, with a real eye-catcher on the ground floor in the form of a glass dome designed by Samyn & Partners. Commissioned by Jan De Nul and BEMECO, Vitroplena performed the structural design calculations for this glass dome, comprising of a minimalist custom-designed steel structure. This, in turn, is stabilized by glass triangular panels structurally bonded to the steel bars. The result is a steel dome stabilized by glass, in which both materials work together in beautiful structural fashion.

matuvu-knokke.be

Dutch design week

Dutch Design Week is a large-scale and international nine-day event in Eindhoven focusing on design in all its facets. The event is Northern Europe's largest design event, taking place annually in late October, showcasing work and concepts by more than 2,600 designers. You can visit between Oct. 21 and 29, 2023.

ddw.nl

Bath & Barley spa

Set in a vaulted cellar in the old city center of Brussels, Bath & Barley is an updated take on a traditional Czech beer spa from design studio WeWantMore. Beer spas offer beer-infused spa treatments, most notably beer baths where guests soak in water mixed with hops, malt, and medicinal herbs.

bathandbarley.com

Forest of Knowledge

After winning an international design competition in 2018, Snøhetta was commissioned to design the new sub-center library in the Chinese capital. The architectural, landscape and interior design was developed in collaboration with local partner ECADI. Construction began in 2020, and the roof has already been installed. Currently, the up-to-16-meter-high (52-foot) glass roof is being installed. When completed, this will be the first self-supporting glass facade project in all of China. Construction is expected to be completed in 2023. snohetta.com/projects/beijing-sub-center-library

A bright idea

Ghent-based Bright Energy cleverly provides construction sites with green energy.

Bright Energy Clever use of green energy

Siblings Sam, Arne and Lisse Van Acker are the faces behind the ambitious Bright Energy. They provide construction sites with renewable energy by means of batteries and a smart energy management system. Their goal? Eliminate polluting diesel generators from construction sites.

How did you come up with the idea behind Bright Energy?

Sam: "The construction site of the future is electric. Equipment on construction sites is increasingly electrically controlled, which means that the demand for energy continues to increase. The sites often have to settle for smaller grid connections that are not sufficient for the high peak capacities of tower cranes and the ever-growing energy demand.

So, there’s a clear mismatch between construction sites’ energy demand and what the grid can provide. To that end, Bright Energy offers a smart battery system that meets the power and energy demand, while using the limited grid connection to charge. By working

with a central energy management system that knows which devices are on the site, we make optimal use of the grid connection and use energy more consciously and intelligently. The battery takes energy from the grid when opportune and distributes it to the right devices at the right time."

Arne: “I find it hard to deal with inefficiency. I'm overdoing it now, but the consumption of a diesel generator on construction sites is, so to speak, equivalent to running your car 24/7 and ending up only using it once a day for a short distance. I couldn’t accept the fact that in cities where you’re not allowed to drive a diesel car, you’re allowed to use such generators.

That's where the name "Bright Energy" comes from, by the way. Battery technology already exists, but it’s only profitable if it’s used intelligently. Our approach was: "How can we ensure that there’s no longer any reason to choose a diesel generator?" The battery may be more ecological, but to bring about a complete shift in the construction industry, it

must be better in all areas. The system is also more reliable and easier to use, doesn’t cause any nuisance and is financially profitable if used intelligently.

When did you start?

Arne: "In 2016, I convinced our dad to install a home battery at our house. At the time, we were among the first in Flanders to have one. In order to make the system profitable, you had to do something intelligent with it. That's why I started writing control algorithms for it myself. I managed to cut the electricity bill in half 2 years in a row. Then, me and my brother wondered if we couldn't do the same for others. That's how the ball got rolling.

In 2019, we participated in UGent's start-up program Expedition DO! which we won. Originally, our idea was aimed at replacing generators in the event sector, but it soon became clear that construction sites were a better market. Not only is the market larger and not seasonal, the consumption pattern on construction sites is also more predictable.

A sustainable alternative

Bright Energy's ambition is to ensure that people no longer choose polluting and noisy diesel generators.

And that benefits our algorithms. By the end of the same year, Bright Energy was officially established with a clear focus on the construction industry and all the services that go with it."

How does it work exactly?

Arne: “I like to compare the battery to a buffer tank where you fill a large barrel slowly and continuously and occasionally open a large tap at the bottom. We have noticed that the 'tap' isn’t used very often, so there’s a lot of space left to do other things with the barrel.

A construction site needs the battery for a maximum of 12 hours on a working day. During those hours, we use the battery to lower the site’s energy rate. When energy is cheap, we charge the battery, and the site is powered from the grid as much as possible. When energy is more expensive, the site operates entirely on the battery.

On weekends, in the evenings and during construction leave, the site is shut down and

the battery isn’t used. This means that you only use it one-third of the time. That would be a huge loss of value. Bright Energy gives the system a second functionality in energy markets or by providing grid balancing services when the site is not using it. This also ensures a higher return on investment, lowering the price for the contractor.”

Sam: “We provide energy as a service to construction sites. We look at the best way to supply power for each site. The customer doesn’t need to worry about a thing. With the software tool we developed, the customer can easily enter the devices he or she wants to use on the construction site. Based on this, we calculate which battery is required and provide the installation and control of the system. All the customer has to do is plug in the devices.

The software platform contains a monitoring tool that displays the energy consumption for each individual plug and device. This gives the customer an in-depth insight into where the energy is going on the site. Measurements

have already shown that an enormous amount of energy is lost on construction sites and there’s a lot of room for improvement. Through the platform, we can intervene, by setting timers on the gates, for example. This way, standby consumption can be completely eliminated. We now also offer the software platform separately for electrical site planning and for use with monitored and controllable electrical cabinets if no battery is required.”

What are your plans for the future?

Sam: “We now have 11 operational units. It has already been a challenge to scale up, as some key hardware components have been unavailable due to corona. Meanwhile, we have greatly improved the product and are ready to move to serial production. Our goal is to produce 5 units per month starting July and 10 per month starting in 2024.”

Arne: “We would also like to offer our batteries and the energy management system to other industries, at events or in charging stations, for example. We are growing strongly in our country and there’s also a lot of demand from the Dutch market. But we remain Belgian, so we keep it real.”

•

'

W hen energy is cheap, the site is powered from the grid. When energy is more expensive, the site operates entirely on the battery.

The Two Towers

Relaxing in grandeur? The hotel tower of Atlantis The Royal in Dubai offers luxurious rooms, suites and penthouses. Permanently wallowing in luxury is also possible in the apartments of the residential tower.

of the island King

Atlantis The Royal, Dubai gives luxury an entirely new dimension. The project on Palm Island consists of two impressive 185 and 165 meters-tall towers (607 and 541 feet), connected by a 45-meter-long air bridge (148 feet). There, you will find a great deal of design novelties. Be dazzled by stylish interiors and endless views of the Dubai skyline. The sleek, modern exterior was designed by New York architectural firm KPF (Kohn Pedersen Fox), while the interior was designed by Parisian interior designer Sybille de Margerie. As for the spectacular Skyblaze fountain on the ground floor, this was designed by WET Design. There’s also a Belgian side to this architectural gem: BESIX Group built the complex!

ATLANTIS THE ROYAL IN FIGURES:

185

Meter tall

37

Floors

795 231

Rooms, suites, and penthouses

Luxury apartments

17

High-end restaurants

2023

Opened January 2023

Living in marble

A collection of visionary projects that stand out for their unusual, but beautiful design.

in marble

Living

While these projects were not designed with the intention of ever actually being realized, they give us a glimpse of the architect's mind. They show us how rendering flirts with the limits of the possible.

"Living in marble" is a concept conceived by architect Hannes Peer upon seeing the myriad of abandoned marble quarries in Italy. While quarrying operations had defined the landscape, this always took place far out of sight of the inhabited world. This unique architectural composition reuses sites reminiscent of archaeological digs. The complex represents the ultimate connection with nature by allowing people to literally live in and amongst the marble. The utopian, postmodern city exudes a sense of enormous power. The simultaneously archaic and ultra-modern environment is also the ideal place to pause and reflect on the impact of the marble mining industry. This ecological project has great potential: several parties have already shown interest to turn it into reality. Perhaps its realization isn’t as impossible as first thought...

Sustainable construction

ION bases the implementation of its sustainable development vision around three pillars: energy, water, and circularity.

ION – thinking more circular

An interview with Steven Willems, R&D Director at ION

These days, it is impossible to imagine any new build project that doesn’t include insulation, solar panels, or heat pumps. However, sustainability is increase in prominence in the world of project development each and every day. ION sees itself as a pioneer in this regard. Besides being committed to raising awareness within the industry, the company is also setting up its own innovative projects on its project sites.

We spoke with Steven Willems, R&D Director at ION, about how sustainability and innovation go hand in hand to make life better for the future residents and users of ION projects.

“We’ve already been working on more efficient and sustainable construction techniques for some time, especially when it comes to managing water, waste disposal, and energy consumption. However, circular thinking during the construction process is also becoming more important, both for us as well as the end client."

Less conversation... more action. Meet Steven Willems.

On April 1, Steven Willems celebrated his 10-year anniversary at ION. As Design Director, he propelled the design team forward in establishing sustainable project development. In 2015, ION was Belgium’s first real estate developer to achieve a carbon-neutral certification. Today, Steven is R&D Director, focusing primarily on better integration of sustainable practices into current and future ION projects.

Bridging the gap on sustainability

"Our construction methods have to change, that much is certain. As such, we are putting careful research into possible implementations to make the process more sustainable and efficient, while at the same time keeping things affordable for the end client who also needs to benefit in the long run. If we don't make this trade-off, then ‘new builds’ could end up becoming synonymous with ‘unaffordable’. Young couples have a hard enough time buying. Should sustainable options become even more expensive, the gap is

only set to widen. Everyone should have the opportunity to live more sustainably. And this is exactly what we're going for."

The three pillars

ION bases the implementation of its vision for sustainable development around three pillars: energy, water, and circularity. "Currently, we are most advanced within the energy pillar. In 99% of projects, we are fully deploying heat grids and geothermy, using fossil-free fuels as much as possible, as well as working with third parties, ESCOs to be exact, to support and monitor our green energy goals."

Gray water, the collective term for wastewater produced from household goods (shower, kitchen, laundry machine, etc.), can be fully reused for the same purpose once treated. Gray water systems have long been deployed in countries where water is scarce (and expensive), such as Spain and Australia. Here in Belgium, while it’s long been mandatory to recover a minimum amount of rainwater, not much has changed beyond that. That’s why ION is trying to surpass this minimum

requirement as much as possible within its projects.

"For anything that doesn’t require pure drinking water, the future resident should be able to rely on recovered water. If there isn’t enough rainwater, then this shortfall will be made up using gray water systems.

One example can be found in Suikertoren, an apartment block situated in the city of Veurne's Suikerpark. Here, gray water from 35 apartments is collected and filtered. Together with rainwater, this provides the 70 apartments in the building with non-potable water for toilets or washing machines for example.

On a larger scale, in collaboration with Pepsico, Colruyt, and West-Flanders, we are looking into how feasible it would be to purify the entire sewage network for the Suikerpark project (also with blackwater), and buffering

ESCO, WASCO, and MASCO

Third-party Energy Service Companies (ESCOs) support and monitor our green energy goals. What are the benefits?

- No additional costs for buyers (third parties incorporate it into their business model)

- Unburdening: one party monitors the management of the installation, so no unexpected costs in the event of any problems

- Energy rates are market-based or even more competitive

- Only the energy consumed is paid for, not the energy needed to run the installation itself

- T he installation continues to operate optimally, since this is also in the ESCO's interest

Increased comfort for residents, as passive cooling can often be offered as well

We extend that same principle to WASCOs (Water Service Companies), and we are looking into doing the same to MASCOs (Material Service Companies).

Change in mindset

The demand for sustainable building and living is often coming from the eventual buyer asking developers to go the extra mile.

that water, together with rainwater, in the water catchments within the nature reserve. If it works out, this would eliminate the need for individual rainwater tanks. This water could be filtered, for example, for use within the production process of chips at Pepsico. At the same time, it could be returned to the homes in Suikerpark via a second public water network. This would be a very strongly driven sustainable and circular application, serving to save drinking water on a large scale, invaluable within in a drought-prone area such as Veurne."

At present, the pillar currently requiring most research is the third one: circularity. "The question is how can we apply our experiences in both energy and water management to achieve the same goals of keeping homes affordable for customers, ensuring materials are used sustainably, and that end users also experience the benefits. However, this pillar would appear to be proving more complex than the other two. Additional energy costs or water conservation applications are more easily borne by third parties (MASCO, for example), as these often include revenue models to help that party benefit. When choosing circular raw or other materials, this isn’t always the case."

Using circular construction methods means, above all, having to relearn how to think in a circular way. “Fifty years ago, we constructed buildings with materials that, in principle, when the home was demolished, could be reused for the same exact purpose (e.g., slate “Boom” tiles, facing brick with lime mortar, loose tiles in the sand, etc.). Today, this is almost impossible to do, what with our use of concrete and glue to hold everything together. As a result, demolishing buildings

requires far more energy, all at a greater cost. Not much more of the demolished buildings can still be used, except perhaps as a building material. However, we can change that right now. That's why ION is looking at how building materials can be returned to their original purpose within 50 years without too much manipulation. With structural engineers specialized in glass and aluminum infrastructure, we’re looking at how we can assemble windows so they can later serve as windows once again, etc. Although this story has yet to be written, we’re definitely on the right.

Bottom-up

The demand for sustainable building and living is often coming from the eventual buyer asking developers to go the extra mile. The recent energy crisis has made us pay more attention to developing more energy-efficient homes. Not just to avoid an outrageous energy bill, but also to live more sustainably.

"While the way we deal with water may not be a hot topic today, it will be in the future. With our summers only set to get hotter, we’ll be seeing more and more droughts. In the past (and still today), installing rainwater systems has become the norm. However, when these would come into disrepair, people often simply switched back to drinking water systems. When too little rainwater was collected, clean water would still have to be injected. These are two processes we are currently examining and trying to optimize, meaning our end customer shouldn't have to worry about that further down the line."

Sustainability vs. circularity vs. image

That’s why a bottom-up approach doesn’t always make things easier. For instance, take a drywall. While drywall is quite durable, its

image doesn’t sit well with people. According to Steven Willems, over time

we will move towards circular partitions, such as those from Juunoo. That evolution is now taking place in the corporate world and residential application will follow.

With tiles, on the other hand, it’s different. Tiles can certainly be a sustainable choice. They last a long time and can be produced in an environmentally friendly way. That being said, because these are glued to the underfloor layer, it takes a lot of energy to remove them, after which they can't be reused either. Good for the image? Yes. Sustainable? Yes. But circular? No.

In brownfields

The first decision, where to build, for example, also plays a big role in that story. To that end, ION always opts for brownfield sites, i.e. land that has already been built on before, such as abandoned factory buildings and obsolete office blocks, for example. Greenfield sites, on the other hand, find themselves at the other end of the spectrum. These are often found in the countryside or on the outskirts of the city. If you really want to build sustainably, given that many new-build projects usually fall under the phenomenon known as "urban sprawl", you need to put serious consideration into your choice of site.

"As a developer, when choosing your location, you always look first at where the end customer wants to live, of course. It should have enough appeal to make for a profitable project in your chosen location, while mobility is also something that needs to be considered. However, ION would never build on a valuable greenfield, even if the regional development

plan would essentially allow it. Our focus is on maximizing biodiversity and wildlife value of any plots we build on. Not only does this make for nicer housing and living conditions, it is also our way of working against the urban heat island effect."

No more diesel

Construction sites tend to cause large spikes in energy consumption. Contractors often account for this by using mobile diesel generators, so as not to overload the national grid. For many construction companies, managing this spike in energy consumption is a challenge Mobile generators are sometimes left running for no reason, especially at night and on weekends. They also emit a large amount of CO2, with the generator having to be pumped with diesel several times a week.

"More and more construction site equipment is becoming electric. By using Bright Energy's battery units, we are now able to generate the energy needed to build projects the 'slow' way."

Connecting a site with one tower crane to a battery unit instead of a diesel generator saves an average of 60,000 kg CO2 per site per year*. That is approximately equal to the emissions produced by an average-sized car travelling 350,000 kilometers. What's more, these site battery units produce no noise or diesel smells. "For us, this was a huge factor in deciding to go fossil-free. Diesel generators are the cause of many grievances for local residents, particularly on weekends or at night, when they are being used for pumping out water or digging. In the long run, not only are site battery units more user-friendly, more efficient, and cheaper, but they also keep us on good terms with our building site

neighbors. Thus, two birds with one stone."

This collaboration is clearly going well, so well in fact that ION will make the Bright Energy battery units a standard protocol for all future projects. "Our hope is to make all of our construction sites fossil-free by 2025. This alternative provides us with a great solution for minimizing the impact of the overall construction process not just the building itself."

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'In 2022, we partnered with BrightEnergy, a young family-owned company based in Ghent.

A paradise in the middle of nature

Enjoy the breathtaking views on the extensive domain of Château La Coste.

GOD IN FRANCE

Château La Coste is located in a vast estate in Aix-en-Provence, set in over 200 hectares (494 acres) of vineyards, olive groves, and forest. The estate is a special place where architecture, art, wine, and nature come together.

Stunning architecture

Château La Coste has worked with some of the world's most renowned architects, such as Tadao Ando, Jean Nouvel, and Renzo Piano. The result? A series of striking, innovative buildings that blend in perfectly with their beautiful, green surroundings.

Visitors there can explore Tadao Ando's glass and steel Art Center, which houses contemporary art exhibitions, or tour Frank Gehry's Pavillon de Musique, a concert hall right in the middle of a vineyard. The architecture at Château La Coste is both modern and timeless, offering visitors an unparalleled experience.

One of the most impressive buildings is undoubtedly the winery, designed by famous French architect Jean Nouvel. The building is fully integrated into its hilly surroundings and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

In addition to the winery, the estate displays many other notable architectural works, including the gallery by Japanese architect Tadao Ando, and a pavilion designed by British architect Richard Rogers.

Art

The contemporary art collection housed by Château La Coste is impressive, featuring works by well-known artists such as Louise Bourgeois, Sean Scully, and Ai Weiwei.

Stroll through the beautiful, landscaped gardens and discover unique works that blend seamlessly within the surrounding nature.

The art at Château La Coste is in constant rotation, with the estate regularly playing host to new installations and exhibitions. Everything is set to the rhythm of nature, with the collections changing with the seasons.

Wine and gastronomy

But that's not all. In addition to culture and art, of course, you also enjoy the wine, with the renowned wine estate having already won several awards. The organic and biodynamic grapes are picked by hand, with production according to traditional methods. Take an inside look at the winemaking process during a once-in-a-lifetime tour.

Crouching spider Louise Bourgeois © Richard Haughton

Surprisingly versatile

Gastronomy, culture, nature, art, architecture. The domain has a lot to offer in all areas.

Feel like a god in France, enjoying the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside with a refreshing glass of wine in hand. Looking for a bite to eat? In the estate's four restaurants, you'll feast on refined meals prepared by top chefs using only the best local products.

Nature

Château La Coste is set amid beautiful nature, with olive groves, fruit trees, and idyllic gardens. The estate is designed to accentuate all of its natural beauty in harmonious fashion.

Visitors can also enjoy the estate's many water features, including a lake designed by artist Louise Bourgeois. A true haven for nature lovers, it offers a quiet and serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Château La Coste is a unique destination that links architecture, art, wine, and nature in a special way, offering a “full-bodied” experience you won't find anywhere else.

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Wish Trees

Yoko Ono

© Vincent AGNES

Pavillon de musique

Frank O. Gehry

© Andrew Pattman

More and more people invest in student accommodation

With guaranteed returns and positive prospects, this type of investment has been gaining in popularity for years.

Investing in student housing

Belgium faces a structural shortage of affordable and quality student housing. As a result, more and more individuals are turning to the exciting world of student real estate. It’s a trend that’s becoming more popular than putting money into savings accounts.

Explosive growth of students in Belgium

The number of Belgian students continues to rise every year. During the 2021-2022 academic year, Belgian higher education had as many as 507,000 students, already 3% higher than the year before. This growth has been greatly stimulated in recent years by the increasing proportion of French-speaking Brussels and Walloon students, which is why the demand for decent student housing is rising year-on-year.

New construction is gaining popularity

Why do students opt for a particular city today? It’s about so much more than just a particular university or college located there. For example, students value the city's accessibility, the cost of living, the nightlife, the arts and cultural offer. The atmosphere and charm of a university town are also important factors in a student's choice.

In addition to these criteria, comfort is gaining in importance. Today, in 2023, students want a spacious room with private amenities, preferably including a private bathroom. Common areas still play an important role, especially when it comes to cooking. On top of that, students value affordable rent and a good internet connection.

Needless to say, students are increasingly opting for new builds. New builds are sustainable, which benefits not only the residents, but also the property owners. As an owner, for example, you don't immediately face any maintenance or repair costs. In turn, residents get to live in an energy-efficient building, saving them a great deal in terms of energy costs.

Stricter standards for student dorms

Standards for student dorms are becoming ever more stringent. For example, as of January 2024, there will be a so-called “dorm label" in place, acting as an official seal of approval for Flemish student housing. Representatives of university cities, higher education institutions, students, and private actors created the label to provide uniformity and transparency in the quality of dorms in Flanders. The dorm label takes into account factors such as fire safety, city planning permits, and housing quality of the property in question. There will also be a reporting requirement for landlords offering student accommodation, allowing local governments to carry out systematic checks. However, this label will not be mandatory. As long as an owner complies with all of his legal obligations, he is free to rent out to students.

Investing in student rooms: a smart choice!

Due to the acute shortage of student housing and stricter landlord requirements, combined with the wishes of students, more and more private individuals are deciding to invest in student accommodation. A smart choice, as it turns out. A safe and sound investment, with guaranteed returns and positive prospects, this type of investment has been gaining in popularity for some years now.

Each university town has its own advantages

Which university town you choose is, of course, a personal choice. Every city has something to offer. Those who choose Brussels, for example, are combining the advantages of a university town with those of a metropolis. Students are drawn in by its international character, multilingualism, and multicultural aspects. Ghent students are appreciative of the dynamic between its vibrant present and authentic past. Ghent is an international city with a rich history, all on a more human scale. The city also continues to reinvent itself beyond its historic old town.

Leuven is the university town par excellence. Here, you’ll experience your college days in the beautiful historic setting of a small, well-located city. The university is nearly

Benefits

- Guaranteed demand.

- Rental income is inflation-proof.

- New-build student properties will always increase in value over the years.

- The lower entry price point makes student accommodation a very accessible investment, allowing multiple purchases and spread any risk.

- There’s also an emotional factor. You’re giving your son or daughter a really nice place to stay.

600 years old and enjoys a strong international reputation. That being said, those with a penchant for fashion, culture, food, and studying will often opt for Antwerp. Every piece of this metropolis has its own vibe. As the student facilities are highly clustered, there is a real sense of community. Liège is a Walloon city with an international image. The city is becoming more attractive to students every year, thanks to its location on the banks of the Meuse River, as well as its offerings in terms of culture, folklore, and its science park. The "student microcosm" of Louvain-La-Neuve is a compact, car-free city that allows you to get everywhere on foot, by bike or public transportation. Hasselt, meanwhile, offers a wide range of entertainment options and is known for its vibrant nightlife. Within the diverse range of courses on offer at the university, students take classes in

smaller groups and receive personalized tutelage. In terms of history and culture, Mons also has a lot to offer as the former cultural capital of Europe, with seven schools and four university campuses. Here, research takes precedence. There is also Namur, a folkloric city with countless entertainment options, becoming increasingly popular among Belgian francophone and French students. Namur is known for its training programs in the health care industry. In West Flanders, we have Kortrijk, which is tremendously gaining in popularity. Here, students benefit from personalized tutelage and small class sizes. Finally, Bruges has also put itself on the map as a university town, thanks to its broader range of study programs and modern array of student housing.

'More and more private individuals are investing in student rooms. A smart choice, as it turns out.

Goodbye packed attic

YouStock is an innovative solution to the growing lack of space. Store things that you don't need right now in a storage room. This frees up valuable space in your home.

Using living spaces more efficiently

Society is evolving at a rapid pace. Not only are property prices on the rise, but the working-from-home approach popularized during the pandemic has caused permanent changes to the real estate landscape, which requires a new way of life, one where space is used (even) more efficiently. And that’s exactly YouStock's area of expertise. This player is taking a look at the traditional business model of self-storage and looking for a sustainable solution to live smaller, all without sacrificing a sense of space or your belongings. Stuff you don't need for the time being is stored in a storage unit. You are then free to re-purpose the cleared space as a guest room, office, or hobby room. Think of it like an attic conversion, only in a different location.

Self-storage is trending up

Traditional business models seek to provide sustainable solutions to the social problems we face. According to the latest annual report on self-storage from FEDESSA (Federation of European Self Storage Associations) and CBRE, the number of storage units in Europe increased by 5.1% over the past 12 months, while total storage space increased by 4.8%. And that's just the beginning, with this trend set to continue over the coming years. To meet the ever-growing demand, new business models need to focus on usability and efficiency. YouStock is replacing traditional storage units and focusing on the use of the space. As a result, you only pay for the space your stuff takes up, leaving more room for others.

Small is beautiful

We are seeing a growing trend of people living in smaller and smaller accommodation. On the one hand, small houses or apartments are naturally cheaper than large ones. On the other hand, they allow you to live more sustainably and reduce your carbon footprint.

While living smaller has its advantages, it can also entail practical problems, such as a lack of storage space. By storing certain

belongings elsewhere, you can free up space at home without having to say goodbye forever to those items you don't use every day.

"Declutter your home," a trend that came over from America under the enormous influence of Marie Kondo: "Does this spark joy?" Whether out of necessity or for mental or aesthetic reasons, YouStock offers an innovative solution to the ever-growing problem of lack of space.

Tetris

What if you only paid for the space you actually use, instead of renting an entire garage box that you will never end up completely filling? Like solving a puzzle, YouStock comes up with the most efficient way to lay out your moving boxes. Just like in a game of Tetris.

YouStock offers B2B and B2C storage through a full-service digital platform and easy-touse app. Users pay a monthly fee and can easily and efficiently store their belongings, thereby freeing up valuable space in their homes. They are then free to arrange that space in a way that will give them greater value and satisfaction.

Digital one-stop shop

Through the app, users can specify their storage needs, after which YouStock will bring them into contact with moving companies and storage facilities. This means users can not only store their belongings, but also have them transported and relocated. YouStock therefore offers a fully integrated solution, giving you not only space, but also saving you time and money.

While YouStock is currently only available in Brussels, the company plans on expanding to other cities and regions in Belgium. Meanwhile, the company already counts an impressive number of users, including digital nomads, growing families, and people renovating their homes. The platform is also popular among people simply looking for extra space, in addition to or instead of the attic or garden shed.

Also for developers

Besides offering an innovative solution to the growing lack of space, YouStock also has its benefits for real estate developers or agents. By providing (temporary) additional storage space, developers can immediately add value to their projects, while providing an answer to the urgent need for living smaller, as there is a real chance that the real estate and project developer markets set to evolve, with smaller living combined with a subscription to a storage unit becoming the norm.

Whether a project developer and a private individual looking for more breathing space, YouStock offers a flexible solution tailored to your needs. •

' The number of warehouses in Europe has increased by 5.1% and total storage space by 4.8% over the past 12 months. And that's just the beginning.

Lazare offers more than just shelter

People feel at home here. They prepare themselves to take up an active role in society.

Lazare

Jérôme works as a Project Developer at ION and wanted to help people who are having a hard time. Since August 2022, he has been living with his wife Alicia, his son Briac and a bunch of other people at Lazare, a unique project that promotes inclusive living. Here, people who have lived on the streets or in other precarious situations live together with young people who want to contribute to society.

Jérôme, how did you come up with the idea?

Jérôme: "My wife and I had already been looking for a way to help people who were struggling. We also both have social degrees. In addition, it is important to us that our son understands the value of this project. We like the fact that he’s growing up in an inclusive environment."

Where does the name "Lazare" come from?

Jérôme: "We strongly believe that you can get back on track in life. The goal of Lazare is that after a certain period of time, you can take up an active role in society again. This can be done

in different ways: a job, voluntary work or even a hobby."

How many people can you accommodate and how long can people stay at Lazare?

Jérôme: "The house in Brussels contains two flats, one for men and one for women. Each flat accommodates 10 to 12 people. The young activists stay for a year. This is more practical for us and this way, we can guarantee the necessary stability. People who come from difficult situations aren’t tied to a specific duration. They stay as long as they agree with Lazare's philosophy. Sometimes it can take a while for them to find themselves and be ready for their new role in society. In theory, they can stay for 10 years. In practice, it's usually one to three years."

You undoubtedly build a connection during that stay. Isn't a departure emotional?

Jérôme: "It can be. But in the end, no ties are broken. Most of them keep in touch. And we are actually quite proud when we notice that a resident is ready for a new life. What does

make it hard for me? If it doesn't work out. Sometimes a resident no longer agrees with Lazare's philosophy. He or she then decides to live alone. Sometimes that person ends up on the street again, or experiences psychological difficulties. I find that much more emotional. Even though we try to do everything we can to help that person on their way as best as possible, someone leaving is a choice we respect. 'Our commitment is not to succeed, but to remain faithful.' That's a quote from Mother Theresa."

As a "responsible family," you don’t only live next to the flats, but you’re also responsible for recruitment. What criteria must residents meet?

Jérôme: "There are certainly no black and white criteria. But we do expect the young people to commit themselves for a year, even if they have a job on the side. We also check whether the project really suits them and if they are not only looking for a place to stay. Once a week, we have dinner together. It’s not obligatory, but we think it’s important. In addition, we regularly organize group activities."

homeless people and young people live together ... in a special way

And for those coming out of difficult situations? What do you take into account when recruiting them?

Jérôme: "Here we try to assess whether they are just looking for shelter. Because then there are other options. Does this form of living together really suit that person? It is not for everyone. We also have a charter that the residents sign. Drugs and alcohol, for example, are a no-go. For me, as the person in charge, it is a matter of finding the right balance. Not that we exclude anyone, but we try to take different personalities into account."

Do you sometimes need more privacy?

Jérôme: "Absolutely! But the residents each have their own room. Other houses have much stricter rules and impose a curfew, for example. Or they have to eat together every night. At Lazare, there’s more freedom. I live in my own house, only the garden is shared. When we need a little more privacy, we go away for the weekend or take a day trip to clear our heads."

What’s the advantage of this way of living for you?

Jérôme: "Living together with people from different backgrounds and with different personalities? That’s an enrichment. Especially for our son. It opens up his perspectives. He also knows all the residents' names. If they are having a bad day, he cheers them up. That's nice to see."

And for the residents?

Jérôme: "It's also enriching for the young activists. They learn a lot from the project. For the people who have lived on the streets or come from another delicate situation, it’s important

to get adequate guidance. In addition to ours, they get the help of a social worker. We help them prepare for an active role in society."

It all sounds very nice, but do things sometimes go wrong?

Jérôme: Of course. Before I got into this project with my family, we lived with friends. And there were conflicts too. Here, you live together with people you don't know. When shopping, discussions sometimes arise about what products are bought. In such cases, we sit around the table together. We try to resolve conflicts as quickly as possible. That's also how the most interesting conversations start."

As a responsible family, you stay in the house for three years. Where will you live after this? Will you step into a similar project? Or will you take a completely different approach?

Jérôme: "I think that after this project, we’ll live in a traditional way first. The couple who lived here before us also said so: it's quite exhausting. After three years you need to take a break. But you get a lot of energy in return. Every three years, a new family moves in as responsible family. That undoubtedly has advantages as well."

•

'L azare refers to a biblical figure who helps people in need. That name fits with our philosophy.

Authentic charm, new purpose

The re-purposing of heritage sites such as old office buildings, churches, homes, and rectories, is gaining popularity. The challenge is to give that heritage a new role within public space, while staying as faithful as possible to the building's original function.

Between 2030 and 2050, the construction shift or concrete freeze (limits on construction and the use of concrete in open spaces) is set to take effect, and all the while our population will continue to grow. As a result, we will have to start getting creative with all our existing and available infrastructure. The question arises as to what role heritage buildings can continue to play in the future. We asked Flemish Minister for Finance and Budget, Housing, and Heritage Buildings Matthias Diependaele, Head of Real Estate at Participation Company Flanders, Erwin Vrijens, and Jeroen Huysmans, Business Development Director at ION to provide some answers.

Repurposing real estate heritage: today's challenges and opportunities

What is the situation today in terms of available places to live and heritage buildings?

Jeroen: "Everything starts with supply and demand. The supply today in Flanders consists of a total of 2.3 million buildings, including houses, apartments, and non-residential buildings. 11,000 of these are listed as protected heritage sites. The demand for housing continues to rise and the population continues to increase. These figures are only set to grow in the future, due in part to migration, war, climate change, and geopolitical conflicts. Looking at this supply and demand side by side, it makes sense that the idea of re-purposing heritage sites such as old office buildings, churches, homes, and rectories is gaining in popularity. Consequently, the importance of finding new uses for these spaces will continue to grow."

Matthias: "In concrete numbers, this means that, by 2050, we will need about 400,000 extra housing units. Not only due to migration,

but also because of decreasing family sizes. In recent years, for example, we have seen an increase in single-person households. Going forward, we must keep in mind the broad consensus that we should minimize or even not break ground on open spaces at all. Moreover, we need to make existing housing more environmentally friendly and climate neutral. Finally, there is the cost involved. It's a big challenge to take all those factors into account."

What exactly is covered by the term "heritage building"?

Matthias: “Here, in Belgium, this refers to around 11,000 protected monuments, although that number is fairly relative. These often comprise churches, castles, fortresses, or industrial complexes. That being said, it could just as easily be a pump in the market square or a small chapel, or Gravensteen Castle in Ghent. In some cases, monuments can be subject to two or three protection laws. As such, we need to give this number due consideration."

Heritage buildings are part of our history and street landscape

Re-purposing these properties isn’t easy, given their value and unique qualities.

Does the government provide enough opportunities to invest in real estate?

Erwin: "Actually, we should first take a moment to consider the problem statement as such. Of those 11,000 monuments, there are a number of usable monuments to re-purpose for economic use. In Flanders, we’re also actively engaged with various private actors, although they do sometimes hesitate. The permit process takes longer than traditional real estate development, while the cost structures are higher. In addition, newer properties usually benefit from greater energy performance. So things aren't that straightforward."

But problems are there to be solved...

Jeroen: "Collaboration between the private and public sectors has intensified in recent times when it comes to revitalizing heritage buildings. While this is important, this also has to go further than mere subsidies. Promoters often say: ‘Subsidies are super important.’ And while that’s true, subsidies are meant to serve as a catalyst for us to trigger and initiate a project. No redevelopment project should stay on the subsidy drip forever. It often happens that projects stall out, for whatever reason. Then, on top of that, we find that the degradation of a building is an exponential fact, in the negative sense. That costs a lot of money. All of which makes it difficult for a private developer, with a market-based return and no government intervention, to realize such a re-purposing.”

Erwin: "Every case is different. Sometimes, heritage simply can’t be made profitable, nor can it be re-purposed economically. Then the government needs to intervene. Sometimes, there are opportunities for private contributions, where private actors provide added value to play with. Sometimes no intervention or subsidy is required. It’s not always about

' We need to consider the beauty of decay. An industrial park doesn’t have to shine.

Matthias Diependaele

dollars or cents. I think we need to move more and more towards a project-based approach."

Matthias: "I completely agree. This is music to my ears, as, not only am I Minister for Heritage Buildings, I am also Minister for Budget. And then people are already saying that the government should provide subsidies. But we’re talking about public money here, for our people, for our society. And we have to be careful with that. Heritage will always need subsidizing. Cathedrals and castles, for example. Whereas other properties can be put towards economic uses."

"Heritage is the material expression of our identity, of who we are as Flemish people. That being said, heritage should not be something that we, as a government, spend a lot of money on and then put a bell jar over it, just for us to drive past it with our car or bike to take a look at. We should try to give that heritage a role within the public space, to do something with it. If possible, preferably with an economic purpose. With heritage, you have to stay as close as possible to the building's original function."

Naturally, a lot of people have an opinion on re-purposing heritage, sometimes leading to commotion, other times a source for consensus.

Jeroen: "As we just said, heritage is our legacy. It’s our identity. It’s who we are and it’s where we’re going. It’s important for everyone. And, sure, everyone claims the same thing. For me, claiming is not at odds with some position of ownership. That's why, where possible, I’m in favor of seeing if it can be re-purposed and if we can give it an economic function, all the while in consultation with the government."

“Economic function is still compatible with

accessibility. Monuments or protected buildings should be accessible once a month or during an Open Monument Day. Or you simply give it an accessible or public function. Take our development Panquin in Tervuren, for example. The project includes a hotel. You can stop by for a coffee.

In addition, it’s still always better to ensure that the entrepreneur set up in the building in question also maintains it like it’s their own, instead of relying on the government."

Is it important to gain the trust of local residents?

Jeroen: "Not only their trust, but also their knowledge and personal insights. When revitalizing an old industrial building or an old church, we often find that many local residents hold a great deal of information about the former building. They know exactly how things used to be. The function of a promoter here is to give the building a new and economic purpose. For us, that's a new chapter of a book. But by the same token, it’s not a new book. You shouldn’t see it as binary. We write a new story with respect for the past. We can only do that by working with the neighborhood, the government, and all other stakeholders.”

The government wants to challenge project developers to change their approach. How do you go about dealing with that challenge?

Jeroen: "I think that this change is only positive. The market is now much more competitive, the government makes choices, and the best projects are holding out. That is, of course, very interesting for a project developer like ION. It means we can tackle the big, unique, and complex projects, so that right from the start, we can work hard on a case that makes sense, both

financially and in terms of sustainability, ecology, and the community.

Erwin: "You can't maintain everything perfectly either. Certain choices also have to be made. We also see cases where there are different degrees of renovation. We will have to make a well-considered choice between monuments that are perfectly restored, whether or not they are re-purposed, on the one hand, and assets that are gradually absorbed into nature and take on a temporary character, on the other. These are choices that will need to be made more and more in the future."

Matthias: "True. We need to consider the beauty of decay. For example, take the old mining site in Limburg. There, they renovated part of it, as they should, and as we asked them to. But, in all honesty, it's not as beautiful as it was before, when it was a bit dilapidated. An industrial park doesn’t necessarily have to shine – especially one that never shone before. But now it does. So that doesn't add up. Therefore, decay should certainly be an option. Of course, this is hard to quantify. What is allowed and what isn't?"

What do we need to remember about the re-purposing and the value of heritage buildings?

Erwin: "Above all, we have to consider its role within society, as well as the identity that heritage holds. And, of course, the stories behind them that make our living and working environment so much richer, rather than just building everything anew. Finally, the private and public sectors have to join forces to make it happen."

•

Green living on a historic site

At the edge of Park van Tervuren, a historic site finds itself surrounded by lush greenery. The historical heritage of the Panquin site is at the heart of the project. There will be four new builds with uniform façades. Inside, one enjoys space, light, and a high-quality finish.

UNDER CONS TRUC TION

The building has a unique location Day center Wissel is located right by the Leie River, within walking distance of the city center.

Day center Wissel

Behind the elegant facades of the old police station in Kortrijk lies an imposing building project named "Atelier Jules.” The complex includes a day center, Wissel, comprising 24 homes where adults with acquired brain injuries (ABI: i.e., non-congenital) can live and work. The project came about through close collaboration between project developer ION, the inclusive network company Group Ubuntu, and the day center for people with disabilities, Den Achtkanter.

A

unique blend of renovation and new build

Day center Wissel was born out of a need for personalized care for people with acquired brain injuries. For such people, the focus is on quality of life and appropriate care. They need encouragement, training, and a fully tailored program, allowing them to maintain their role within society. The kind of care they need can’t always be provided by residential and nursing homes in sufficient numbers. The construction of such projects therefore is an absolute must. In collaboration with Group Ubuntu and den Achtkanter, ION was able to put together a complete construction project. Day center Wissel not only provides a day center, but also dining, work, and therapy areas. A unique blend of renovated, elegant facades and innovative new build, the complex is designed to meet the specific needs of its residents.

Separate needs for people with noncongenital brain injuries and people with mental disabilities

Initially, the day center was focused around two target groups: people with mental disabilities, and people with non-congenital (acquired) brain injuries. However, it quickly became evident that both groups have different needs. People with non-congenital brain injuries want to get back to living the lives they had in the past to fullest extent possible. Therefore, since 2012, the center has become solely focused on people with non-congenital injuries.

Unique location

The housing project is located in the Overleie neighborhood of Kortrijk, a unique location, right by the Leie River, within walking distance of the city center. Day center Wissel is

located on the same property as the Overlys and Townhouse projects. The building is made up of three floors, with a light-exposed patio in the center providing an oasis of light and atmosphere.

The building can accommodate 24 individuals, spread across one eight-person home, four studios, and three four-person living units, all designed to encourage the greatest possible degree of independence and comfort.

With Group Ubuntu having agreed to lease the units for the next 27 years, day center Wissel offers an interesting opportunity for investors.

Quest for the right care

Christine's husband, Johan, set out to find the right accommodation and care. Initially, she was admitted to the hospital's rehabilitation unit, staying there for about a year. She was then transferred to an assisted living facility. However, the quest for tailored care remained an issue. That was, until she came to day center Wissel. "Here, I'm happy. Here I finally feel at home," says Christine, with a huge smile.

At day center Wissel, the emphasis is on the continuous development of cognitive ability. The project offers its residents an opportunity to resume making a valuable contribution to society. With proper training, residents are given a chance to get back their sense of self-esteem. The day center encourages them to pick up where they left off. As part of this effort, caregivers and coaches take into account the person's past. For example, those who used to work as carpenters are encouraged to get back to working with wood. Similarly, there’s a job coach who helps residents find customised work

or volunteer opportunities. When they get a specific request from a business leader, the coaches try to find a match with one of the residents.

Customized program

Each resident receives a program carefully tailored to their needs. For example, Christine regularly works in the company workshop, where residents perform semi-industrial tasks for various companies, such as folding or packaging. Christine can also enjoy the creative studio, working with handmade paper to make booklets. In the common living area, she makes soup for the residents.

On top of that, Christine works at BOkes, a brasserie that employs people with non-congenital brain injuries or mental disabilities. There, she makes food, folds laundry, or prepares the folk games. The brasserie is located barely two kilometers (1.2 miles) from day center Wissel, allowing her to work independently.

Resident Christine Vandercleye feels completely at home in Day center Wissel for the first time after her cerebral haemorrhage.

Light has a positive impact on residents' moods

The centrally located, bright patio provides an oasis of light and atmosphere.

All three of the creative studio, business studio, and living space are located in the day center Wissel complex, which means residents don’t need to take a bus to carry out their daily activities. This means they are not over-stimulated, keeping them more relaxed, which in turn promotes their mental well-being.

Careful spatial organisation

While day center Wissel encourages residents to live and work together, it also provides private spaces for each resident. “You need that too," says Caroline. "Christine, for example, is very social. She likes having contact with others. But she also feels the need to isolate herself from time to time. That is also typical of people with non-congenital brain injuries. Of course, not everything is perfect here. You have to live with different people, often having to witness each other's more unpleasant side. While this can be a challenge for anyone, it is often a little more difficult for people with non-congenital brain injuries."

Problem-solving training with symbols

Caroline: "We provide training using symbols. For example, an exclamation point stands for "pay attention," put on the brakes for a moment. A magnifying glass makes it clear that you need to take another look at the assignment. An arrow encourages you to start working on it. And, to double-check everything, you simply need to put your glasses on." "This is something they can also

take into their future lives outside of the center," Catherine adds. "For example, when they need to take the bus."

Enjoying the little things

"I was able to put everything into place," says Christine. "I enjoy the little things more now. I am also so proud of myself. I enjoy being able to do so many things independently now."

"That's right!", Caroline adds. "We knew exactly what we wanted. ION made it possible to create such a building. Did you know that we also had a say in the design of this building and how the spaces operate? For example, we felt it was important to have more light in the living area than in the creativity studio. After all, light has a positive effect on people’s mood. So now the creativity studio is located where the living space was originally foreseen. And vice versa. It was also necessary to have more restrooms,providing more comfort to the residents. Naturally, the building is also entirely wheelchair-friendly. After having consulted the architects, this was something we could eventually turn into reality. Here, we tailor all activities and training sessions to the residents. We give them the desire to live again, helping them regain their sense of self-esteem. Here, you get to feel included in everyday life, receiving guidance where and when you need it."

•

' We give people the desire to live again.

Caroline Kopàcsi, Agogic coach NAH

' The luxury residential projects

Townhouse and Overlys are located side by side along the renovated Diksmuidekaai in Kortrijk, with day center Wissel also bordering the site. An exclusive location, close to the city center and with a beautiful view of the Leie river.

IN NUMBERS

RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT

— 18 QUAYSIDE HOUSES WITH VIEW ON THE LEIE

— 2 SEMI-DETACHED HOUSES IN THE COURTYARD

— 54 UNDERGROUND PARKING SPACES

— 1 COMMUNAL INDOOR GARDEN

SURFACE AREA

2,700 M 2

INVESTMENT VALUE

10 MILLION EUROS

ARCHITECTS

CAAN

B2AI

The first project to feature stacked houses in Kortrijk

Stacked houses combine all the comfort of an apartment with the advantages of a single-family home. By stacking the houses, we are creating playful structures and giving the spaces a refreshing layout.

The houses are accessible via open stairwells, each having their own front door.

A lovely meeting place

The courtyard garden, packed with greenery and benches, is an ideal meeting place for residents.

The large windows give the interiors a spacious feeling, letting in an abundance of natural light.

Enjoy the view

At Townhouse, you livea life of luxury along the banks of the Leie River. The stunning view can be admired from the spacious terraces, which are equivalent in area to those found in classic homes.

Each house features its own unique accents, such as asymmetrical buttresses and spiral staircases.

Underground parking

Park your car easily in the parking lot under the Overlys building, located right next to Townhouse.

In perfect harmony

The sleek Townhouse quay houses, paired with the massive, solid architectural style of Overlys, create a nice balance on the project site.

Enjoy views of the water, the dynamic Overleie district, as well as proximity to the city center.

The courtyard connects Townhouse and Overlys.

Contemporary architecture

The Overlys project is made up of eight exclusive apartments with south-facing terraces and extra-large windows, offering beautiful views over the Leie River.

' The layout of these apartments is comfortable and spacious, with the finishings being of extremely high quality.