At Campus Drie Eiken of the University of Antwerp, a brand new student restaurant opened at the end of August, a project that is part of a broader campus renovation focusing on education, research, and student experience. Group Jansen put its weight behind this project with great relish.
Seating for 400 Students
The University of Antwerp has invested heavily in its infrastructure in recent years. In addition to new lecture halls and research centers such as Vaccinopolis (executed by Jansen Cleanrooms & Labs), there was also a need for better facilities for students. The existing student restaurant Komida, for example, was bursting at the seams.
Together with UAntwerpen and B-Bis architects, our Makers (Jansen Joinery) and Builders (Jansen Building Projects and Jansen Energy Solutions) added the necessary salt and pepper to this foodhall. And you can taste it!
The new student restaurant can accommodate 400 students and, together with the sports hall and commercial spaces, forms a vibrant campus square. Students can choose from a varied selection there: from Komida’s own kitchen to popular concepts such as Bavet and Café Unif.
More than just a Dining Spot
The interior of the food hall exudes a modern and inviting atmosphere, perfectly tailored to the needs of students and campus visitors:
- Layout and furniture: The food hall is spacious with various seating areas: long tables for group meals, smaller tables, and lounge corners for informal meetings.
- Materials and colors: Natural materials such as wood and concrete create a warm, robust look. Neutral tones are complemented by red accents.
- Lighting and ambiance: A mix of pendant lights and spotlights create a cozy and functional environment. Large windows provide abundant natural light.
- Architectural details: High industrial ceilings with visible structural elements give the whole a contemporary look.
From Plaster to Planter
Group Jansen, together with our strong partners, provided a wide range of works for this project, with a strong focus on interior, custom and technical finishes. For example, spray plaster was applied to walls and ceilings to significantly improve the acoustics in the space. The metal spiral staircase and balustrades were expertly manufactured and installed, which is not only functional but also contributes to the industrial character of the building.
The custom-made furniture, including zigzag tables, integrated planters, and waste bins, was entirely designed and realized in-house.
Undoubtedly, the eye-catchers in the interior are the booths with large zigzag-shaped seating furniture, finished with acoustic panels that provide peace and comfort. The ceiling fixtures, combined with acoustic curtains, were also custom made by Jansen Joinery and are a visually strong element in the space.
Finally, Jansen Energy Solutions was responsible for the entire electricity supply and lighting, completing the technical picture seamlessly.
Warmth, Functionality, and Identity
“This student restaurant is much more than a place to eat,” says Inge Denecker, project coordinator at the University of Antwerp. “We wanted to create a space where students feel at home, can relax and meet each other. Thanks to the collaboration with Group Jansen, we succeeded. The interior exudes warmth, functionality and identity.”
In the coming years, Campus Drie Eiken must grow into a vibrant campus heart that is alive day and night. With the food hall as a central meeting place, that vision is already a significant step closer.
