“Giving and taking” is a project developed for the citizens of Krottegem, where non-formal learning in the form of workshops stands central. It is defined by its low-threshold, so it can be a multicultural meeting place for all ages.

 

The project started in close cooperation with the surrounding schools. The school desks can be made in the start-up workshop, later on they can make tables and chairs for the entire structure. At that time, the workshop has grown and there would be room to include an art studio.

 

Thus, the building becomes a knowledge focal point, which focuses on exchange of knowledge and skills. The brewery connects both studios, it projects, through photos and film material, the production process. The loungers, provide the opportunity to rest and reflect on the brewery, which is an industrial architectural gem. In this phase, the utilities are also addressed, a stairwell is placed to promote circulation and also restrooms and a storage space are designed to make the building more functional.

 

In the third phase of the project, the common kitchen is created, which is developed and build at the workshops. The kitchen will serve as a cultural and social meeting place this can provide a possibility to discover ethnic cuisine.

In the fourth phase of the project, a community vegetable garden is designed, to grow fruit and vegetables inside the building and on the roof top. These can be harvested and used in the common kitchen.

In addition to the gardens, the cooling vessel is transformed in a conservatory to grow subtropical plants and the boilers are transformed into refrigerators

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In the final phase, the remaining empty space is dealt with. These are some suggestions : the brewery bins could serve as sleeping pods, or as an exhibition area for local artists or as a lounge area …. This space can be redefined throughout the process.