Refuge

Triginta has been granted a 99-year leasehold on this unique location, situated in the city's retail triangle and just a stone’s throw away from the train station. The Refuge is steeped in history: some parts date back to the 15th century, while the majority of the complex originates from the 18th century. 

But heritage doesn’t mean being frozen in time. The historic Refugium, including its chapel, will be preserved and restored. Some of the ancillary buildings will make way for new constructions that respect and complement the historical setting. The inner courtyard will be de-paved and greened, and the historic garden will be restored to its former glory.

This is not your typical real estate development. This is a place where history and the future enhance one another.

The Refuge will not become a closed-off enclave, but an open and accessible site. Flexible office spaces will accommodate new ways of working. Organisations such as Jamaswapi and the Onze-Lieve-Vrouwe Choir will continue to call this place home. The site will be extensively greened and fully accessible, creating a seamless flow between the city and its heritage.

The next steps have already been taken: the building permit has been finalised, the construction file is complete, and the tender for contractors has been launched. This project is moving forward. And it’s not going unnoticed. Thanks to its thoughtful approach to heritage with an economic purpose, the Refuge has received funding from Flanders Heritage Agency for investing in a protected heritage site while giving it a new economic purpose or enhancing its existing one.