wissel

architectuurstudio

future generations lab, leuven

x
x
1/42
21/42

Program: scenographic installation
Location: Leuven, city hall
Client: City of Leuven, Leuven MindGate, Architecture Workroom Brussels and with the support of Flanders Technology & Innovation
Date: 2023
Design team: wissel architectuur studio
in collaboration with students from KU Leuven Faculty of Architecture Brussels: Keirse Matthias, Leroy Felix, Nys Louise, Reniers Dries, Schellemans Kristof, Smith Nyall, Vanlaer Siemen and Wellens Nils
Structural design: L.A.B.E.A.U.
Photography: wissel architectuur studio, Craps Diederik, Pollers Jan, Wellens Nils

In association with the City of Leuven, Leuven MindGate, and Architecture Workroom Brussels, and with the support of Flanders Technology & Innovation, a social design space for innovation and transformation has been created in Leuven’s historic Town Hall. Extensive renovation works are planned for the Town Hall in 2025. Until the end of 2024, temporary use of the vacant second floor of this landmark building provides space for an experimental living lab. ‘The Future Generations Lab’, led by ten young people from Leuven, explores the impact of social and technological changes on the future of work.

 

The lab is situated in a large open room on the second floor of the Town Hall. Within this space, a freestanding structure has been designed to serve multiple purposes: as a workspace, exhibition area, lecture space, and seating area. Constructed from simple, modular components, the structure is easy to assemble, dismantle, and move. The main element consists of pine wooden trusses, inspired by medieval cranes, connected with plywood panels of varying sizes to accommodate diverse functions. To maximize the room’s vertical space, a steel scaffolding extends through the wooden frame. This scaffolding includes a staircase leading to a private meeting room known as the eagle’s nest.

11/42
32/42
15/42
19/42
25/42
23/42
33/42
34/42
16/42
39/42
20/42