In a Design & Build formula, the construction team Denys nv and BURO II & ARCHI I designed and built a sustainable school building in Neder-over-Beek. Ingenium designed all technical equipment and provided energy advice and dynamic simulations.

The site includes a school for over 300 preschoolers and a school for just under 600 elementary school students, each with its own janitor's house and refectory, but with a common kitchen and gymnasium. The latter will also be open to local residents. Building owner the City of Brussels opted for a Design & Build formula, involving the main contractor and subcontractors early on in the project. Because the city's climate requirements were stringent, Ingenium opted for a passive school concept. The high airtightness of the building, a BTES with heat pump, system D ventilation, triple glazing, thorough insulation in the exterior walls and a green roof ensure optimum control of the indoor climate. Overheating was a particular concern. The indoor temperature is allowed to exceed 25 degrees for no more than 5 percent of the annual usage time. Ingenium provided blinds on the 3 solar sides. Instead of exterior screens, roof overhangs and wooden slats on the windows were chosen. Dynamic simulations for the most critical classrooms determined the number of slats, which provide the ideal balance between adequate light and efficient shading.

The long heat period during the past July month showed that the choices made were also working effectively. The contractor, who was still finishing the building, could testify that the indoor temperature was very pleasant. Colleagues of his who were working on other construction sites even visited the school in the avenue of the Fire Cross to keep their heads cool during their consultation meetings...