MKGA. multifunctional center Karmin'A Knesselare

the multifunctional center Karmin’A, located in Knesselare

The L-shaped building plot only reveals its shortest side from the public road and is mostly concealed around the corner, along the plot boundaries. This small-scale appearance towards the public domain closely aligns with the urban fabric of the surroundings and enhances the surprise effect upon entering the building. However, it presents a challenge in generating movement towards the open space behind. Architecturally, in terms of materials, volumetrics, and scale, the new multifunctional center manages to bridge the gap between the larger building scale of the school and the adjacent monastery building, as well as the smaller houses on the opposite side of the street. Deliberately, the front of the building is gradually elevated towards the rear of the site and away from the plot boundaries. The building volume starts at the building line, initially forming a covered extension of the sidewalk; a gathering place for access to the multifunctional center from the street side. Housing functions such as an event hall, multipurpose spaces, teaching kitchen, after-school care, library, and academy.

A second entrance is provided on the garden side, also with a versatile square in front, located between the new building volume and the existing chapel. From here, a safe car-free access and passage can be created, connecting, among others, the neighboring school to the after-school care within the new center.

year: 2023-2024, environmental permit

client: municipality Aalter

program: multifunctional center, library, academy

location: Knesselare

team: Eiffage, design office Cobe, design office van Reeth, Daidalos Peutz, Alfa TI