ALDEN BIESEN

Feasibility study for a new roof over the court of honour of the castle of Alden Biesen

Year ︎︎︎ 2019 - 2020
Status ︎︎︎  Study completed

____________________________________

The inner courtyard of the castle of Alden-Biesen is covered by a remarkable structure: the characteristic 'Umbrellas' by Ney & Partners. The ingenious construction, the result of one of the first Open Call procedures, allows the courtyard to be used as a multifunctional event space, but has been struggling with technical problems for several years. This feasibility study, commissioned by the Facilitair Bedrijf and in consultation with the Agency for Immovable Heritage, and the management of the estate, explored the possibilities for a new canopy. On the basis of a historical, structural and acoustic study, the existing situation was examined and a programme of requirements was drawn up. An extensive reference study forms a 'catalogue' of possible canopies. On the basis of design research and various dialogues, various scenarios were worked out, analysed and budgeted. The result forms a solid basis for a follow-up trajectory in the form of an architectural competition.