Restoration work begins at the Royal Conservatory of Brussels (BE)

After a preparatory phase that started a year ago, renovation works begin in February. These initial works were necessary to remove asbestos and decontaminate the buildings to ensure the safe continuation of the renovation process.

The renovation and restoration are aimed at bringing the entire conservatory complex up to modern standards, enhancing safety and comfort. In terms of acoustics, the various halls and classrooms will be acoustically decoupled from the surrounding structures. New circulation routes will be created to improve accessibility. The roof of the large concert hall will undergo significant reinforcement, with existing wooden trusses being strengthened and new steel trusses added. Additionally, the new building requires excavation to a depth of 13.5 meters and shoring along the existing monuments. This is made possible by manually excavating trenched walls that surround the underground levels.  To be able to execute the restoration works, we analysed the structural behaviour of the original building and designed tailor made interventions accordingly, with respect for the monuments. Working in a historical context requires delicate integration of the new structure into the old one, while keeping in mind the preservation of the historical and original architecture.

At the latest, in four years, the Conservatory should be able to welcome its students again at its original address.  This project is realised in collaboration with Origin Architecture, A2RC, FVWW architecten, and WOW engineering for the analysis of the existing timber roofs.

©FVWW architecten, Origin Architecture and A2RC