Stylish air intake and fumes extraction through the façade

The AP University of Applied Sciences and Arts Antwerp is now housed in the renovated  halls of the city’s historic slaughterhouse. Following an extensive renovation, the halls and a new tower serve as a hub for students in STEM fields.  The façade is defined by large windows and exposed concrete, but the standout feature is the round shapes embedded in the concrete, providing light, views, and fresh air to the interiors.

Since the closure of the city slaughterhouse in 2006, the site and surrounding neighbourhood had been largely abandoned. However, the site’s potential was undeniable. Eventually, the City Council commissioned project developers Triple Living and Immobel to craft an ambitious master plan. This plan envisions an innovative district featuring cutting-edge architecture, greenery, public spaces, and diverse building functions..  Covering 18 hectares, the master plan transforms the Slachthuissite, Noordschippersdok, and Lobroekkade zones into a vibrant new city area. This district will house residents, local retailers, restaurants, creative spaces, and students. The addition of the hi-tech STEM campus, spanning 22,000 m², perfectly complements this dynamic site.

The slaughterhouse halls have been completely transformed while preserving their historical character. The concrete façade, in some areas just 9 centimeters thick, was carefully restored—a remarkable engineering achievement. A new 8-story tower has been added to the renovated halls, primarly housing classrooms and administrative offices. “It was an incredible opportunity to create our new campus in this historic building, which holds a significant meaning for the local communitysays a representative from AP University of Applied Sciences and Arts Antwerp. 

A new home for STEM students

Triple Living, one of Antwerp’s largest developers, won the design contest for the Slachthuissite and collaborated with architectural firm OFFICE Kersten Geers David Van Severen. Since the campus is dedicated to  STEM programs, laboratories were a significant component, making ventilation and fumes extraction key priorities. “For the laboratory areas on the first floor, fresh air could easily be supplied from outside, with contaminated air extracted via the roof,” said Inga Karen, from OFFICE KGDVS in Brussels. “ “However, the ground floor posed more challenges, requiring air supply through the façade. We sought an aesthetic solution that also met comfort and technical requirements.”

The round added to the façade align with its existing rhythm while giving the building a fresh identity. Ventilation channels connected to these openings remain visible, and their integration was thoughtfully executed. Using natural anodized aluminum profiles and black accents for doors and other components, the flowing façade achieves a harmonious look.

Ventilation units and ducts rest on intermediate mezzanine-style floors above the laboratories. This approach minimized changes to the original concrete structure and avoided undesirable lowered ceilings.

Round façade louvres without flange

General contractor Vanhout  tackled the complex task of updating the façade, which had been painted multiple times. To make the structure waterproof, the façade was sandblasted to ensure proper adhesion for a new protective layer. The concrete was then treated with a special coating for cathodic protection, preventing future corrosion. A total of 448 holes were drilled into the façade—a meticulous process to maintain the building’s stability and the integrity of the cathodic protection.

Architects integrated three rows of round openings into the concrete sections of the building’s shell. The top two rows consist of windows that let in natural light, while the bottom row includes a mix of windows and ventilation louvres.  “We calculated the required airflow rates and determined the number of louvres needed” Inga Karen noted. “The fume extraction requirements also influenced our decisions.” A total of 81 Renson 421R ZF louvres were installed, designed to match the round windows in their black finish.

Unlike standard louvres, these have no outer flange, ensuring they sit flush with the façade, mirroring the windows. “Since new holes were drilled in the concrete, we installed the louvres and windows from the outside,” explained Koen Schoemaekers from Group Ceyssens. Silicone filler was used to seal the louvres, and EPDM sleeves provided complete water tightness.

Renson’s decision to produce flangeless louvres for this project highlights their flexibility and commitment to innovation. Custom brackets ensured secure installation without damaging the louvres, a process that went smoothly thanks to close collaboration between all parties.A Successful Collaboration

The project’s success stemmed from open communication and teamwork.  “Throughout the process, the school embraced the architects’ bold approach, leading to this stunning result,” said Gert Van Hoof, project manager at Triple Living. The building was handed over to the school on August 30, 2024, and now trains approximately 2,000 students each year.