A sustainable and aesthetic facade solution for AZ Delta Torhout

A functional parking building with an eye for aesthetics

The new parking building at AZ Delta in Torhout was designed as a functional and efficient parking solution. With space for 385 vehicles, including 20 disabled parking spaces, the building provides a smooth parking experience for visitors, patients and staff. The structure, spread over four floors, integrates seamlessly with the surrounding infrastructure and includes a Kiss & Ride zone at the entrance on Noordlaan.

Besides ease of use, there was a strong focus on aesthetics and sustainability. The open design not only had to comply with strict fire safety requirements, but also had to contribute to a modern, playful look that perfectly matches the hospital's contemporary architecture.

Choosing vertical façade louvres: more than an aesthetic element

In an open car park building, the façade plays a crucial role. On the one hand, the façade had to be permeable to air in order to meet fire safety requirements; on the other hand, it was important to create a visually attractive whole. This is where DUCO's architectural solar shading, DucoSun Cubic 200, came into the picture.

The louvres of the DucoSun Cubic solar shading were placed in a rhythmic arrangement, which not only ensures functional openness, but also adds a playful dynamic to the building. By varying colours and placing them randomly, a lively facade appearance is created that changes depending on the viewer's perspective. This playful aesthetic is enhanced by the white horizontal bands that give the whole a clean, modern look.

Simulation image north facade entrance building

Implementation: smooth cooperation for seamless execution

The facade finishing was part of a public procurement contract and was carried out in collaboration with contractor Stadsbader and facade specialist HABEMO. DUCO's louvres were chosen for this project, thanks to their high-quality finish, flexibility in design and perfect fit with the requirements set.

Nik explains, "A special feature of the execution was the use of prefabricated mounting elements, in which the wildfire of colours was carefully prepared. These precast elements were placed on site with extreme precision, allowing the louvres to fit seamlessly into the underlying precast structure of the building. The result is a harmonious whole that combines aesthetics and functionality”.

Conclusion: DUCO as a link between functionality and design

The AZ Delta Torhout car park building shows how architectural choices can contribute to a functional and aesthetic whole. DUCO's vertical louvres were the key to a solution that met both practical requirements and visual expectations. Thanks to the combination of air permeability, aesthetics and flexibility, DUCO succeeded in transforming this parking building into an architectural statement that fits in with AZ Delta's vision of the future.

With this case, DUCO proves once again that innovative solar shading and façade systems not only fulfil a practical function, but can also be a defining factor in modern architecture.

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Architect: Bureau Partners

Photography: Bart Verbauwhede for eXponent