Context and Challenge

Psychiatric care facilities require a careful balance between a therapeutic environment, safety, comfort, and sustainability. Digital care systems are gaining importance as a way to reduce the workload on staff and give residents more autonomy, but they must be seamlessly integrated into the building’s infrastructure. At the same time, the renovation of historic buildings requires respect for the existing structure and a sustainable energy concept that fits within the architectural constraints.

Smart Healthcare Systems

During the design phase, Ingenium Z.org assisted KU Leuven in drafting a set of requirements for smart healthcare systems. This involved translating healthcare processes and user needs into concrete technical requirements: automation, monitoring, communication systems, staff call systems, and safety features. The set of requirements was then translated into technical specifications, enabling the selection of a supplier and the seamless integration of the system into the building automation system.

Technical Consulting and Energy Concept

Ingenium assisted WIT Architects with the full range of technical consulting services: HVAC, electrical, plumbing, sustainability, and EPB reporting. The energy concept is based on a “ BTES ” for cooling and heating, supplemented by a fully low-temperature system and a PV installation. This combination makes it possible to achieve high energy performance with limited investment costs, even within the constraints of a renovation project.

GRO Certification for Heritage Renovation

The project is being certified through VIPA (Flemish Infrastructure Fund for Personal Matters) in accordance with the GRO methodology (Building Reporting for Public Authorities). GRO evaluates buildings based on people, the environment, and finances, and sets high standards for comfort, accessibility, energy performance, and sustainability. This is particularly complex in heritage renovation: historic preservation regulations impose restrictions on facades, roof structures, and spatial interventions, which complicates the integration of insulation, building systems, and renewable energy. Ingenium ensured that the energy concept (BTES, low-temperature systems, PV) fit within the heritage context, while simultaneously meeting the GRO criteria for therapeutic environment, safety, and accessibility. Thanks to this integrated approach, the PVT Lubbeek has become a sustainable healthcare facility that respects the past and provides solutions to today’s challenges.

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Master Plan for Future-Proofing

During the preliminary phase, Ingenium provided energy consulting at the master plan level for the monastery site, focusing on the relationship between the PVT, a future RVT, and the service center. This integrated approach ensures that energy infrastructure can be shared, investments can be spread out, and future expansions remain possible without major modifications.

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