First spade for sports complex in Willebroek

Jochem Verbeek (project architect at ZJA) says: "The new sports complex in Willebroek will be a high-quality and sustainable sports facility. Despite the extensive program, we have managed to keep the building as compact as possible and optimally integrated into the surrounding environment. With two sand-colored volumes housing the sports halls, connected by a more transparent entrance, the building fits as lightly as possible into the park. The front facade, facing the park, provides a warm welcome, and the choice of wood and brick ensures the building blends well with the green surroundings. Inside, we have kept the modular wooden load-bearing structure exposed, enhancing the inviting and visibly sustainable appearance of the complex."

Clear layout and optimal orientation

The new sports complex will replace the old athletics facility in the park and will be surrounded by a new experiential park, designed by OMGEVING landscape architects, offering a wide range of sports and recreational facilities.

The new building is characterized by a clear layout and optimal orientation. It is also sustainable in terms of energy and material use, and highly flexible in its use thanks to the intelligent design.

The brick facade made of Boom clay at the base, the glass entrance with tall columns, and the CLT (cross-laminated timber) walls and floors of the central nave create the varied and natural appearance of the facade. Inside, wood is extensively used, giving the building a warm and sustainable interior.

A place for sports and social interaction

The entrance makes a bold, welcoming gesture, with a wide view of the interior through the high glass facade. On the ground floor, the two large sports halls are located, with associated facilities like changing rooms and storage in the middle, and a fitness room next to the entrance. On the upper floor, you'll find a cafeteria with a view of the sports halls and a terrace overlooking the park, a multipurpose room, and two meeting rooms.

The central volume, containing all the support functions for the sports halls, is designed to be as transparent as possible. Through the front facade and several skylights, natural light floods deep into the center of the building. Thus, alongside sports, visibility and social interaction are central to this sustainable and compact new sports complex in Willebroek.
Want to read more about the design? You can do so here.