41 sheltered apartments with contemporary architecture

The new-build project consists of two beamed brick volumes, embraced by a blue hard stone volume. These two beamed volumes are a nod to the wings of the former place of worship, as well as a reference to the containers in the nearby harbour. 

An important asset is the dynamism created by the corbelling and the large interior patio. Architect Geert Bekaert (LLOX Architecten) explains, ‘The various glass sections and the deliberate avoidance of columns give a light and airy impression. By doing this, we’ve been able to avoid a classic problem with serviced flats  – monotonous, straight corridors.’ 

The new-build project largely obscures the view of the existing residential and care facility, being larger and more dominant. The modern accents are vested in the design, the pattern of the windows and façades, and the technical infrastructure. But it does reproduce the characteristic construction materials, namely red brick and quarry stone.  

The facing bricks are bonded rather than mortared. This gives the façade surfaces a uniform appearance. As an alternative to quarry stone made from concrete, the architect opted for cleaved blue hard stone to contrast with the  red ‘Boston’ brick used for the façade.

The project also meets the current requirements of sustainability. The building has high-quality aluminium windows and ample insulation thickness, especially on the roof. ‘The green roofs give a buffering effect during heavy rainfall and added protection to the roof waterproofing,’ explains architect Geert Bekaert. 

The official opening of Den Agger was on 11 September 2015. ‘But the first residents moved in to the sheltered apartments in 2014,’ explains general director Jos Grootaers. ‘The complex also accommodates babies and toddlers up to the age of three,’ says general director Jos Grootaers.