In Ghent, near Sint-Pieters station, Group Jansen renovated the common dining area of the Belfius building. What for years was an uninviting and underutilized space evolved into a warm, multipurpose environment for dining, meeting, presenting and hosting events.
From refectory to total concept
Originally, the first floor was used only as a refectory. However, the space felt cold, white and uninviting. Moreover, it was hardly used outside the lunch hour. And that had to change, according to Belfius and building manager Philadelphus. The challenge was clear:
- Maintain dining space capacity
- Add additional features: meetings, training, events, receptions
- Provide more sociability
- Create setup flexibility without fixed partition walls or subdivisions
A challenge that LUBDUB, Group Jansen’s design department, was happy to sink its teeth into. The result is a flexible, cleverly designed total concept. This within the existing technical structures and with maximum attention to atmosphere, comfort and acoustics.
Smart zoning
“The existing site was arranged as one large open space, had a complex shape and fixed technical structures. Although the glass facade brought in a lot of daylight, it offered little privacy at the same time,” Ben Wouters, manager at LUBDUB, outlines the initial situation. “We chose to visually divide the large space into 3 different zones, each with its own individuality. This way you retain the open feeling, but within it there are three recognizable zones that reinforce each other.”
1. A bar and kitchen area: with wood accents, an updated ceiling in warm tones and a bar counter with high seating areas. This area was deliberately made more intimate. Ideal for informal moments or catering during events.
2. A central flex zone: the place where tables and chairs can be freely rearranged for lunches, trainings, presentations or receptions. Thanks to a new storage area created by redesigning a lost space, setups can be quickly adjusted.
3. A lounge area on the facade: here came three seating corners, curtains for privacy and large plants for a homely atmosphere. The windows provide plenty of natural light and make this area a favorite spot for short meetings or quiet breaks.
Atmospheric & acoustic comfort
The LUBDUB team deliberately chose materials that add atmosphere and character. “We worked with two different floors to subtly differentiate the zones and brought warmth to the interior through wood and earth tones. 28 lantern fixtures in different sizes and shapes provide a playful accent, while large plants and hanging greenery bring extra vibrancy,” Ben said.
“Acoustics was also one of the key design principles. The acoustic ceiling was complemented by additional absorbent wall panels. Curtains on the facade contribute to better sound attenuation, while carpets, seats and greenery further soften the space. The result is a quiet, pleasant environment that remains comfortable and clear both at lunch and during busy presentations.”
Also as an event venue
In addition to a logical layout, warm materials and thoughtful acoustic design, the space is fully equipped to be used smoothly as an event venue. A large presentation screen and multiple repeat screens provide clear visibility for everyone, regardless of seating. Electric curtains allow the entire space to be closed off during confidential presentations, while an adjustable LED line allows the atmosphere to be customized to each tenant’s corporate style.
“Thanks to the flexible tables and chairs, the space can transform in minutes into a lunch spot, a theater setup for presentations, a standing reception area or a full-fledged meeting room,” Ben comments.
A space that is right
This project shows the strength of Group Jansen’s integrated design & build approach. The interior concept was worked out by LUBDUB, but other specialized teams also played a crucial role. Jansen Energy Solutions was responsible for all the electrical installations, Jansen Smart Solutions took care of the home automation and audiovisual control, and Jansen Joinery provided the custom work and joinery, including the entire kitchen construction. “This close collaboration between design, execution and the client allowed us to move quickly, reduce complexity and match each technical choice to the overall concept. In just 6 weeks, this space was transformed. The result is a space that is right: aesthetically, technically and functionally,” Ben concludes.