Sweco Belgium
Sustainable and future-oriented: the master plan of Clinic Sint-Jozef in Pittem
Clinic Sint-Jozef in Pittem, a center for psychiatry and psychotherapy, is currently undergoing a large-scale transformation with an ambitious master plan that prioritizes sustainability, flexibility, and a healing environment. The redevelopment involves both demolition and new construction and will completely modernize the existing campus to meet contemporary standards and care visions. The transformation is led by VK architects+engineers, part of Sweco, and combines expertise in master planning, architecture, infrastructure, and sustainable techniques.
A campus in transformation
The master plan consists of 2 major construction phases that span a period of fifteen years (2021-2035). The project involves the demolition and new construction of accommodation, therapy, and facility buildings on Boterstraat in Pittem.
Construction phase 1 began in February 2021, covers 11,405 m², and will continue until the end of 2027, carried out by the main contractor Coussée Bouw & Project with the support of VIPA. The first three units were put into service in 2023. In March 2025, a new milestone will be reached with the opening of the accommodation building for child psychiatry. Subsequently, a simultaneous construction of a therapy building for youth and a meeting building will take place, with areas of 2,704 m² and 1,723 m² respectively. To create the necessary space for these new buildings, several existing hospital buildings will be demolished by mid-2025. The therapy building for youth includes a reception area, various group therapy rooms, consultation rooms, offices, workshop space, and living group spaces. It is a standalone building, a playful volume with varying terraces, where natural light and views are central to the design. The meeting building serves as a central structure at the public square and is open to both the public and patients. This building provides space for logistical functions, a large restaurant with panoramic views of the wooded surroundings, a hair salon, an experience library, and the art studio ‘Studio Dada’.
Construction phase 2 of the master plan, now in the design phase, will add approximately 8,500 m² and will continue until 2035.
A healing environment and sustainable design
One of the core principles of the master plan is the concept of a healing environment, where the campus is reimagined as a series of small, freestanding buildings. This design enhances the feeling of homeliness and provides maximum natural light and a strong connection to the surrounding nature. The outdoor spaces, including a multifunctional square, play a crucial role in the well-being of patients, staff, and visitors.
A new feature is the separation between accommodation and therapy buildings. Until now, patients stayed in the same building where they received therapy. By decoupling these two functions, a daily structure is simulated that closely resembles societal reality. Just as one goes to work after breakfast, patients will go to therapy at a different location. This helps them later with their reintegration into society.
Flexibility and sustainability as guiding principles
Flexibility is essential both in the phasing of the project and in the eventual use of the campus. The new buildings are designed with future adaptations in mind. This also applies to the technical installations and material choices, which contribute to a long lifespan and minimal maintenance costs.
The energy concept for the campus is based on a thorough technical and economic feasibility study and is managed through an ESCO (Energy Service Company). The goal is to achieve a fully sustainable energy supply, supported by innovative techniques and environmentally friendly solutions.
Social integration and function
The renewed campus offers a mix of public and private zones. The public spaces, such as the sports hall, the central square, and the restaurant, promote interaction between patients and the wider community. The design also considers the accessibility of the site for local residents, such as cyclists who can pass through the grounds.
Through intensive communication with staff, patients, and local residents, support is created for the new vision and sustainability policy. The ultimate goal is to develop a campus that is not only functional and future-proof but also enhances social cohesion.
A look ahead
With the demolition and construction activities planned for 2025, the transformation of Clinic Sint-Jozef is set to accelerate. By 2035, this renewed campus will not only be a model of sustainability and innovative care architecture but also an inspiring place that prioritizes the well-being of all its users.
Source: Bouwkroniek
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