Small town residential care home

  • Project:

    De Wiekslag

  • Client:

    vzw De Wiekslag Alken

  • Projectcode:

    1404WIS

  • Designer:

    LAVA architecten

  • Site:

    Wetzerstraat, Alken

  • Procedure:

    VIPA subsidy

  • Structural engineering:

    AB Associates

  • Technical systems:

    JC Engineering

  • Photographer:

    Toon Grobet

De Wiekslag is a care facility where young people can temporarily stay in a living group. The design is based on the structure of a residential courtyard that creates a balance between a homely atmosphere and a safe, clear, and supportive living environment. The homes are positioned on a connecting plinth, each with its own entrance and outdoor space.

The homes are focused on community building and connection, with a communal living area for each group on the ground floor—an arrangement that reflects the feeling of a family setting.

With the concept of a living group designed like a family, it was decided to deliberately not connect the upper floors, which have bedrooms for five young people per group. This ensures sufficient privacy for each group. A field study in the form of a temporary stay in a living group showed that strategically positioning the night guard between the staircases could provide maximum independence for the groups.

The first group for younger children has a multifunctional ground floor with two kitchens, allowing parents or caregivers to cook together with their children and develop skills. There is also a multifunctional room for emergency shelter or as a guest room for parents. The second group for older youth (17+) features multiple kitchens and individual refrigerators to encourage independence. In these groups, young people have the opportunity to furnish their room according to their own wishes, personalizing the space and giving them a sense of ownership.

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