Brussels Environment called on the services of the architect office Office U and the sustainability expert office SuReal in order to build a future oriented design of the building. SuReal has guided and supported the architects in enhancing the ecological value and tackling the impacts of the project, With regards to water and energy consumptions, circularity, eco materials and biodiversity.

Regarding water efficiency, SuReal has calculated the demand and the potential rainwater offer to dimension the water tower. During this exercise, SuReal also improved the water concept and proposed features to lower the water demand.

Sureal also improved the energy efficiency of the project, by analysing passive cooling options and proposing the most suitable HVAC solution for the project. SuReal also studied and proposed the possibility of PV Panels, based on different implementation options alongside several design optimizations to make more efficient. SuReal has also analysed the pro’s and con’s for the project to be self-sufficient or to remain connected to the city grid.

Finally, SuReal also integrated a regard on biodiversity to the project’s design. Opportunities were analysed to implement natural features to enhance the fauna and flora of the site. Ideas like creating an osmose with specific local fauna acting as ecological allies for the orchards were particularly fruitful. Disposition were also taken to limit the project’s impact on its environment, notably by minimizing light pollution.

These tailormade studies, supported by clear and practical solutions cover many themes to enhance a holistic and powerful approach on sustainability With this design proposition, Bruxelles Environnement now has a consistent project for Zavelberg’s urban farm, both sustainable and coherent with the idea of bridging between the rural and urban worlds.