Isa Leemans

‘Echoes of Memory’  explores the potential of our (protected) heritage to provide meaning within contemporary design proposals. This project offers a personal view on the active use of heritage in/for the future, focusing on the reuse of the oldest remaining building of the Abbey of Herkenrode: the old timber-framed structure, also known as the old sister's quarters (1512). Here, the layering of memories is employed to foster openness towards continuous evolution, viewing our heritage as an ‘ensemble’ without a definitive endpoint.

The design process consists  of four stages. Firstly, the original plan, as documented by L.B. Dewez in 1767, was examined for its spatial functionality. Secondly, the current state of the building was assessed to determine how its elements could be integrated into a unity. Next, I made my own interpretation of the original plan. Finally, this interpretation was translated into a working design.

The programme encompasses an ensemble of three core themes: production, exhibition, and archiving. These themes are derived from a theoretical basis, which also includes three topics: the Enclosed Gardens of Mechelen, the Wunderkammer, and Horticulture (Hortus Conclusus). This results in an ‘artist in residence’ initiative, allowing artists to temporarily reside in Herkenrode, to create and exhibit their work. Their creations are stored in an archive or ‘House of Memory,’ which serves as an inspiration for future generations. These three themes function as a coherent whole, in which experimentation and creativity have a central role.

The final project strikes a balance between the fragile remnants of the 500-year-old building and a robust underground plinth that serves as a foundation to ensure the monument's longevity. Despite the significant impact of this intervention, all decisions were made with the aim of preserving the experience at ground level and to ensure the memory of the site.

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