This new piece in the redevelopment puzzle of the former barracks of the Ecole Royale de la Gendarmerie in Ixelles will see the addition of a new, regional facility, a first of its kind in Brussels. This amenity will complement the planning of the new quarter consisting of a university centre, family and student housing, and shared facilities (green space, meeting space, shops...).
The House of Autism will advise, mentor, train and support people with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and their families. It will be designed to offer tailored support and provide associations who assist and work with individuals affected by ASD with a base.
The project will be designed to cater for the specificities of its target group, with special attention being paid to the acoustics and accessibility of the facility and a focus on the sensory approach. This means that the designers will have to liaise with experts in the field and with individuals affected by ASD, the key stakeholder in the project, and that, right from the design stage, they will have to ensure that the project is also tailored to the needs of all its users.
The overall objectives of circularity and reuse the Usquare urban project prides itself on will also be reflected in the architectural design of the House of Autism.