Belgium | The Usquare project, a joint initiative of Vrije Universiteit Brussel and Université Libre de Bruxelles, has won the 2026 Flanders Architecture Prize in the Works category. The award recognizes the transformation of a former gendarmerie barracks in Brussels into an open university campus and vibrant urban community.Rather than demolishing the historic site, the project focused on restoring and repurposing seven existing buildings while preserving their architectural heritage. The renewed campus combines education, research, entrepreneurship, housing, and community spaces, creating an environment where students, researchers, and local residents can interact and collaborate.The public jury praised Usquare for its balance of sustainability, heritage conservation, and social impact. The project was also recognized by the expert jury for its innovative reuse of materials and commitment to openness within the city.VUB leaders described the award as recognition of years of collaboration aimed at building a campus where education, research, and everyday urban life come together.
Source: Vrije Universiteit Brussel
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