Ten years ago, the City of Genk approached B Architects to transform a disused wing of the Sint-Albertus School into a community centre through a series of refurbishment works. Under the architects’ guidance, they undertook a complete renovation, prioritising the optimisation of the existing space, the maximum reuse of materials, and the incorporation of sustainable building components.

The characterful buildings of the Sint-Albertus School are located in Zwartberg-Noord, one of Limburg’s seven mining towns. In recent years, the neighbourhood has come under social and community pressure and was in desperate need of a place that would bring the community back together. “Achieving a homely atmosphere that appeals to all sections of the population and all ages was a key starting point for the design,” explains Ruben Braeken, architect and managing director of B architects.