Savonnerie Heymans is a remarkable social housing project located in the heart of Brussels, Belgium. Completed in 2011, this sustainable development transformed a former soap factory into a vibrant community of 42 diverse accommodations, including studios, apartments, lofts, and maisonettes.
The project, designed by MDW Architecture, seamlessly blends historical preservation with modern sustainability. The architects retained and renovated existing structures, including a 19th-century industrial building and a prominent 131-foot brick chimney, while adding new buildings to create a cohesive complex. The development spans 6,500 square meters and is situated less than half a mile from Brussels' Grand Place.
Sustainability is at the core of Savonnerie Heymans. The complex features low-energy and passive housing designs, with the renovated loft building meeting passive house standards. Energy-efficient elements include bioclimatic glass-enclosed loggias, solar panels for hot water, rainwater harvesting, and the use of natural insulation materials like hemp fibers and cork.
The project goes beyond just providing housing by creating a sense of community. It offers shared amenities such as a daycare center, communal meeting spaces, a game library, and various outdoor areas including a "mini-forest" garden, a playground, and a central plaza. This thoughtful design fosters social interaction and creates a village-like atmosphere within the urban setting.
Savonnerie Heymans stands as a model for sustainable social housing, demonstrating how urban renewal can preserve heritage, promote sustainability, and create diverse, inclusive communities in city centers.