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Student House and Restaurant

Ncbham

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MinHuy Nguyen
MinHuy Nguyen
MinHuy Nguyen
MinHuy Nguyen

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Comments
Innovation
Functionality
Creativity
Eco-Social Impact
Total
JURY VOTES
Learning Space
5.26
5.78
5.77
6.43
5.81
Peter Meinders
Peter Meinders Lecturer at Saxion University of Applied Sciences
Tē-Gē; A big contrast with Japan ma...
6.5
8
7
6.5
7
Fo Chen
Fo Chen General Manager at Guangzhou Baietan Mixc
7
6.5
6.5
8
7
Jessica Dimcevski
Jessica Dimcevski Founder and Creative Director at Blurr Bureau
The intentional placement of each p...
6.5
8
8.5
8
7.75
Sarika Shetty
Sarika Shetty Partner at SJK Architects
Timber as a material choice respond...
7
7.5
8
8
7.63
Sam Derrick
Sam Derrick Managing Director at Brinkworth
Whatever 'it' is, Schemata get it,...
8
8.5
9
8.5
8.5
Billy Ip
Billy Ip Principal, Global Sector Leader - Retail at Woods Bagot
7
7.5
8
8.5
7.75
Hong-Bo Cheng
Hong-Bo Cheng Founder and Creative Designer at LubanEra·Design
6.5
7.5
8
8.5
7.63
Laetitia Murguet
Laetitia Murguet Founder at Oani Studio
7.5
7.5
6
7.5
7.13
Kevin Mclachlan
Kevin Mclachlan CEO at NOMADK
Architecturally well placed element...
8
8.5
8.5
9
8.5
Designer
Client
ULB Free University of Brussels
Floor area
1250 ㎡
Completion
2022
Social Media
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Artwork

The transformative power of purposeful design.

The central student canteen in a brutalist building on the campus of the Free University of Brussels was in need of renovation. Originally, the space served a dual purpose, functioning as a canteen during lunch hours and as a separate study area accessible throughout the day.

Recognising the potential to enhance and expand the functionality of the space, we sought to blur the boundaries between these activities. Our vision was to transform the entire area into a versatile study and collaboration space that would also serve as the campus restaurant during lunchtime.

To enrich the experience throughout the day, we proposed the inclusion of a barista bar, offering students a light food selection. Additionally, we ensured that self-service options remained accessible, providing water points and microwaves for students to bring their own food.

Sustainability was a top priority even though the budget was very limited, aiming to promote environmental awareness among students, researchers, and teachers

In the new design, the outdated radiators along the facade were eliminated as the improved MEP plan and insulation provided by the new double glass facades made them obsolete. The concrete radiator covers were repurposed into fixed benches, defining the flow and layout of the space. Collaborating with local street artists, we infused the benches with a playful and edgy vibe, creating a new identity for these repurposed elements.

To further minimize waste, we repurposed table legs into custom-made group tables and transformed chair backrests into refractive acoustic walls. Wood wool acoustic panels were incorporated into the ceiling, providing excellent sound absorption performance while minimizing environmental harm.

We achieved ergonomic diversity by incorporating various seating options that cater to different study styles. This allows students to find tranquillity when seeking solace or liveliness when seeking social interaction. From the wooden platform with Japanese-style tables to the bleachers, podium, and lying areas, the space offers a range of seating choices, from more exposed areas to cozier spots. The ping-pong table also serves as an informal meeting table, fostering a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere.

The lighting scheme was designed to vary in intensity based on the area and activity, meeting the standards of both a restaurant and a classroom.

In conclusion, the transformation of the University campus canteen exemplifies how design can greatly improve a space by embracing the principles of flexibility, sustainability, and user-centric design. The student canteen has become a multifunctional space where students can eat, study, and socialize, while still serving as a restaurant during lunch hours.

The transformation exceeded the initial objectives, with students, teachers, and operators all enjoying the new qualities of the space.