In the municipality of Overijse, the former market halls and their surroundings are to be transformed by the firm B-architecten following a design competition. The winning proposal focuses on creating a meeting place where students from the two neighbouring schools, local residents and passers-by are bound to cross paths and come together.

Built in 1952 in the centre of Overijse, the hall served as a covered market for many years. Over time, the venue’s purpose has evolved, now primarily hosting spontaneous events. The two neighbouring schools have also been making use of the hall’s spaces for several years. However, its potential is not being fully realised and the building’s dilapidated infrastructure requires renovation. A feasibility study was therefore launched to determine the needs of the two schools through a participatory process involving residents, the village council and several associations.

The original hall is renovated whilst retaining its compact, robust and flexible structure. But a new concept of an extended school emerges: various local users take over the space outside school hours. In this way, a single building offers multiple possibilities for use and does not remain unnecessarily empty, by playing on alternating patterns of use.

The building acts as a bridge between the two schools, GBO and GITO. New classrooms, a multi-purpose hall and a youth centre for local young people have been added to complement the existing facilities. The façade alternates between solid and open sections in a regular pattern that echoes the structure of the existing hall.

The new complex engages in a strong dialogue with the public space. Numerous shared spaces are provided, enhancing the vibrancy of the neighbourhood. In front of the GBO primary school, a new village square has been created. Meanwhile, in front of the GITO secondary school, a public forecourt has been created with an entrance leading to the playground. Greenery covers not only the ground but also the building’s roof. The new roof is a community space featuring a sports field and pavilions. Thus, this renovation is an addition both architecturally, with the new use offered by this building, and urbanistically, with a new public space connecting the existing built structures.