In Belgium, an XNUMXth-century weaving factory was transformed into a design exhibition hall

/ Architecture /

In the industrial city of Aalst in Belgium, a former weaving factory of the 38th century was reconstructed. Today, it houses the showroom "ArkXNUMX", which specializes in furniture for bathrooms and kitchens. 

Founders Hans and Stein Sterk began the restoration in 2018, joining forces with Objekt Architecten to revive the historic building without losing its brick industrial character and to preserve the harmonious aesthetic of the building. write Designboom.

"Ark38" features a typical brick architecture with three symmetrical compartments that have been restored to their original appearance through a complex cleaning process. Currently, large rectangular planes in relief brickwork are equipped with openings reinforced by a concrete frame rounded at the top. The concrete contrasts beautifully with the old brick, while acting as a supporting structure. The team also placed new external joinery behind the facade and large openings on the sides – adjacent to the car park – which act as storefronts and provide ample daylight.

Large rectangular planes in relief brickwork, equipped with concrete frames. Photo: ypsilon_business_photography

When designing the exhibition hall, Sterck and Objekt Architecten decided to work with three raw materials – concrete, metal and wood. Each of the materials fills the open space and divides the building.

Photo: ypsilon_business_photography

Photo: ypsilon_business_photography

Throughout the left and center aisles, the concrete disc ceiling rests on three architectural piers that function equally when the furniture is displayed. The disc creates a sense of greater confinement in the showroom below. It also provides additional useful space on the upper level which can be accessed via two concrete steps.

Preservation of industrial character with modern notes

A walkway connects this additional floor to the "metal" volume directly behind it, located through the left and center aisles at the rear of the building. This volume houses offices, storage rooms, toilets, technical rooms and a kitchen where cooking demonstrations can be organized.

Photo: ypsilon_business_photography

Photo: ypsilon_business_photography

Photo: ypsilon_business_photography

"The architectural language and choice of interior reinforce the industrial and historical character of this valuable building without falling into stereotypes. The internal tension is created by the building's ultimate function as a furniture showroom," the team said.

 

 

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