More than just buildings
Sustainable campuses are more than just energy-efficient buildings. We also make efficient use of the available space and (research) infrastructure to limit our use of energy and materials. The campus environments of VUB are also attractive meeting places, tailored to all users. They contribute to the well-being of staff and students and bring more greenery and nature into the city.
VUB infrastructure projects recognised as 'exemplary buildings’
Three VUB buildings have been named model buildings of the Brussels Capital Region within the past few years: the children's campus Theodoortje on the VUB Health Campus, the VUB swimming pool and the Usquare rezoning project. All three were prize winners of Be.Exemplary, a Brussels initiative that rewards projects that are exemplary in terms of sustainability.
Children’s campus Theodoortje: combining functions
Children’s campus Theodoortje combines a primary school, a daycare centre, scout halls, and offices of the Centrum Algemeen Welzijnswerk and the Huis van het Kind. The buildings have a clear, liveable structure and were built using warm, sustainable, and low-maintenance materials. The roofs function as green roofs, and unpaved playgrounds reduce the impact on the soil. Additionally, the campus borders the Laarbeek forest, part of the Natura 2000 network, forming the starting point for a nature experience route. Theodoortje was recognised as an 'exemplary building' because of its integration of different functions and a future-oriented life cycle cost study. We want to integrate this approach into our other buildings as much as possible.
Theodoortje is currently also nominated for the Belgian Building Awards 2023, in the category sustainability. More information can be found here.
