The large-scale redevelopment of the school site combines the restoration of centuries-old heritage with modern new construction. Designed by the architectural firm Vanhecke – Suls, the project rests on two main pillars:

1. Restoration of Historical Heritage
The Schaliënhuis (the oldest building in the municipality) and the adjoining 17th-century convent are protected monuments.

• Preservation of authenticity: The traditional brick-and-sandstone architecture, the original primary and secondary beam structures, the historic roof framework, and the 18th-century staircase are being fully preserved.
• The Convent Chapel: The exceptional, private 18th-century domestic chapel—featuring a Baroque altar, stained-glass windows, and religious Delft tiles—is undergoing meticulous restoration.
• New function: The interior is being equipped with modern amenities (such as contemporary building systems and sanitary facilities) to serve as administrative office and meeting space for the school and the school cluster.

Architectural firm VANHECKE & SULS


2. Modern Infrastructure for the Primary School

• Demolition and openness: Outdated, non-protected clusters of adjacent buildings have been demolished. This provides better spatial visibility for the historical monuments.
• New construction: Brand-new, energy-efficient classrooms and school facilities are being built, meeting the latest educational standards.

As part of the renovation of the school site and the restoration of the heritage structures, terrazzo is being incorporated specifically into the sanitary facilities and the central entrance and circulation areas of the new school infrastructure. This choice was made for the following reasons:

• Durability and heavy use: Terrazzo is extremely wear-resistant and capable of withstanding the heavy, daily foot traffic of hundreds of schoolchildren.
• Hygiene and maintenance: The material features a seamless finish, is moisture-resistant, and is very easy to clean—making it ideal for the renovated restrooms and wash areas.
• Aesthetic connection: It complements the historical character of the site (which often already featured old stone or cement-based elements) while simultaneously providing a modern, fresh look for the new construction.

Artes Rogiers is handling the execution; in collaboration with the client and the architects, the choice was made to use Cominotto NV Terrazzo Cemento in the color BA25.