The redevelopment of Usquare.brussels and the Herman Teirlinck building illustrates how full lifecycle planning supports energy‑efficient design, long‑term operation, and the integration of sustainability principles in complex urban and building projects.
The transformation of the former Ixelles Barracks into Usquare.brussels, now developed as a university hub, illustrates how full lifecycle principles can guide the redevelopment of a major urban site. The project began with strategic planning that defined the spatial framework, energy objectives, circularity criteria, and the integration of the area within the surrounding neighbourhood.
During the master planning and the Regional Land Use Plan, long ‑ term considerations shaped decisions on land use, building functions, and environmental performance. These early choices established a framework for subsequent architectural and engineering work, ensuring that energy use, material flows, and adaptability were addressed from the outset.
In later phases, design teams developed structural, building services, and acoustic solutions aligned with the initial sustainability and energy ambitions. The approach supported feasibility, permitting, and constructability while respecting the heritage value of the existing buildings.
The project also incorporated measures to anticipate future management needs, including reversible and demountable solutions, flexibility in use, and attention to energy performance. This enabled a reconversion strategy that limits material and energy impacts over the building lifecycle.
Key figures:
The Herman Teirlinck building, located at the Tour & Taxis site in Brussels, applies the full lifecycle approach to a large public office facility. From the planning phase, the project set clear objectives for energy performance, indoor conditions, and long‑term operational efficiency. Analyses and simulations informed decisions on the building’s orientation, envelope design, and passive strategies.
These principles were translated into coordinated design solutions, including façade configuration, insulation, solar control, and technical systems. The building integrates geothermal heat pumps, concrete core activation, dynamic ventilation, and efficient lighting to support low energy demand and stable indoor conditions.
During execution, attention focused on implementing these systems consistently to ensure alignment between design intent and operational performance. The combination of geothermal energy, adiabatic cooling, and on‑site renewable generation contributes to reduced reliance on fossil fuels.
In the operational phase, the building continues to evolve through data‑driven optimisation. Model Predictive Control and fault detection enable continuous adjustment of the HVAC systems, resulting in energy savings of nearly 30% in this area and more effective maintenance planning. The planned phase‑out of the gas boilers in 2026 further supports the transition towards fossil‑free operation.
Key figures:
Image from the website (Usquare.brussels), with copyright ©Stijn Bollaert
