Transformation of a warehouse
The Hachiko Therapy-Dog Centre near Ghent
© Johnny Umans
In the Belgian city of Merelbeke, which is south of Ghent, WE-S architects have transformed an old 1250-m² warehouse with a gleaming facade of sheet metal into a therapy-dog centre which trains service dogs for people with disabilities.
© Johnny Umans
The name of the centre honours the famous Akita dog Hachiko, who still enjoys wide recognition in Japan thanks to his lifelong fidelity to his master.
To make the best use of the former agricultural warehouse, the architects have reduced the volume to a pentagonal floor plan. Moreover, they have opened up the old facade to create roofed-in outdoor training areas. The existing sheet-metal roof serves as a roof surface for the new structure as well.
© Johnny Umans
The two-storey dog-training space is at the centre of the building. This area is surrounded by a gallery whose skylights provide a well-lit interior. Offices, communal areas and kennels are grouped around the training space.
© Johnny Umans
© Johnny Umans
© Johnny Umans
A glazed transition space serves as a lobby and connects the dog-training centre with the adjacent concierge’s house.
Architecture: WE-S architects
Client: Hachiko vzw
Location: Molenstraat 54, 9820 Merelbeke (BE)
Gallery
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