Learning without School_Master thesis by Lisa Eisen

Learning without School Master Thesis 2020/21 Lisa Eisen

How to unlock the knowledge of the neighbourhood ?

Studio: So Close Far Away Promoter: Arch. Johan Nielsen KU Leuven Faculty of Architecture Rue des Palais 65-67 Brussels -1030 Schaerbeek

I would like to thank our tutor Johan Nielsen for never stopping to push forward, asking the right questions and his eye on every detail. A huge thank you to my friends, family and my boyfriend, who are always there no matter the time or distance between us. Thanks to the amazing studio group who were like family for the last year; and above all to Lison for following me through all ups and downs of my Master as well as Tereza for becoming my second home and biggest inspiration during the last year.

The Master Dissertation is part of a series about re-imagining learning environments regarding contemporary educational challenges. The series is meant to offer a broader perspective on the topic. This volume "Learning without School" was developed in dialogue with the volume "Learning through Amusement" by Tereza Šírerová . Both represent personal angles on the extensive subject in order to spark a discussion and further research on the topic.

01 Preface

Methodology

Learning without School

It takes a Village...

Traces of Knowledge

A little Promenade

Commissionaires

04 Epilogue

School Typologies Looking at the big Picture

The Story of Liverpoolstraat 61

Heyvaerts Neighbourhood Local Neighbourhood, global Horizon A Community in Jeopardy ? Mutual Dependence, mutual Care Constance in Uncertainty

Slaughterhouses and the Impact of Form Unlocking the Knowledge Liverpoolstraat 61 Intersection

Bibliography References List of Figures

Preface

Methodology

It takes a Village...

A little Promenade

Figure 1: Lisa Eisen, Rue du Compas, 1070 Anderlecht, Brussels, 2021

Methodology

This Master Thesis follows the Research by Design concept. Using architectural design as a tool to gain insights on the research topic and explore it not only from a theoretical point of view but also translated in the context of the city. Therefore, the first chapter explores the Heyvaert neighbourhood in Brussels as the context for the project itself. Unveiling a resilient, but yet fragile and contested safety-net by looking into its history, economy and social fabric of the site. Within this safety net the design identifies traces of knowledge in the neighbourhood, representing its richness and complexity: The informal work of the so-called 'commissionaires' at the intersection of Heyvaertstraat and Liverpoolstraat on one hand, and the old industrial building in Liverpoolstraat 61 on the other hand. The following chapter investigates the two very different fragments with the aim of unlocking their knowledge. Starting by redefining and opening the concept of learning in contrast to the traditional school building and then translation it into architecture. The final design re-imagines the two fragments through small changes, creating a succession of spaces dedicated to learning along with additional structures always respecting the fragility of the neighbourhood. The last chapter puts the design in relation to different typologies of school buildings from various contexts and time periods. Thus, leading to a general reflection, trying to open the discussion on how learning spaces can be integrated into the reality of the neighbourhood.

Preface

It takes a Village ...

Kids are the future

While the world around us is constantly changing with technological interventions, growing urbanisation and new challenges, the way we build schools has barely changed. It is time to adapt schools for future changes as well as preparing the kids for an unknown future.

First public building

Schools are the very first public building for children. It is the earliest built encounter with the public and premier step of integration into society. This makes schools not only important for the personal development of kids but for society itself. Kids are the Future. The way we teach them consequently impacts the future and our ability as a society to react to global and local challenges.

Rich urban context

Instead of shielding children in the school building from the surrounding reality of the neighbourhood I advocate the value of opening education to reality with its good but also bad aspects. Kids have to be protected but not underestimated.

Learning from the environment

As infants we learn by observing our environment driven by a natural curiosity to understand and learn. This form of social learning is referred to as Observational Learning in psychology.1 Applying this concept in the education of kids will refine their ability to self-teach through investigation. Therefore, the vibrant and buzzing context of a city like Brussels offers many possibilities. In today’s world where knowledge is always available with modern technology skills like this gain in importance.

1 Sherril M. Stone, Observational learning (2017) <https://www.britannica.com/science/ observational-learning> [accessed 10 February 2021].

“It takes a village to raise a child.” Proverb with its origins in the African continent 2

This concept goes along the African proverb “It takes a village to raise a child”. It exists in different variations depending on the local language and illustrates how the entire community of a village is responsible of a child’s upbringing.2 Transferring this idea from a village onto a city it raises the question of where to find communities in a city and how to define their boundaries. Besides, it shows that a classroom is not enough to teach children how the society works and educate them into responsible, confident, and kind human beings.

2 Goldberg, Joel, It Takes A Village To Determine The Origins Of An African Proverb, (30 July 2016), < https://www.npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2016/07/30/487925796/it-takes-a-village-todetermine-the-origins-of-an-african-proverb?t=1612809588465> [accessed 9 February 2021].

Figure 2: Katharine Ambrose, My townships are about people in a community, 2019, photo by the artist, <https://katharineambrose.com/2019/12/06/248/> [accessed 20 march 2021]

Preface

Figure 3: Lisa Eisen, Shadows, Brussels, 2021

A little Promenade

19/04/2021

It is Monday in the morning; the sun has already driven away the clouds and cold of the night. The streets are busy with trucks, carefully manoeuvring through the street. For someone who has never been in the area before, the large trucks transporting old cars might seem out of place. But on closer observation it becomes obvious that it is the start of just another week for the Heyvaerts neighbourhood. Car drivers wait patiently for the big trucks to pass, some having a little chat through their open window. People walking find their way through the cars crossing the street in serpentine without hesitation. The atmosphere in general is friendly and joyful with many people walking through the streets or hanging out in small groups in the sun. I can see nearly only men standing around outside, the women crossing my path appear to be busy with shopping bags or kids on their hands. Most of them seem to come from Africa. As it is also visible on the signs along the street: African food, restaurants, and barber shops. Although, I very obviously don’t fit in, I feel welcome and get caught by the joyful and busy atmosphere. The vermilion coloured bricks of the facade at Rue de Liverpool 61 are in the spotlight of the morning sun. A play of light and shadow brings out the magnificent layering and emphasizes the simplicity of the facade. Openings, windowsills, and the pilasters mark their presence on the facade. A solid rhythm withstanding the test of time and outlasting every change. Creating the feeling of a different temporality in the centre of the ever changing daily life. Taking pictures with a semi-professional camera and measuring parts of the building makes me stand out even more. Passers-by turn their heads curiously and I am asked several times about what I am doing. Contrarily to my assumption no one is offended or bothered by it. Moreover, people seem intrigued by my otherness. I get asked several times to take pictures of people on the street enjoying the attention through the lens of my camera.

Preface

Heyvaert Neighbourhood

Local Neighbourhood, global Horizon A Community in Jeopardy ? 20 Mutual Dependence, mutual Care Constance in Uncertainty

Local Neighbourhood, global Horizon

The Heyvaert neighbourhood is located at the Brussels Canal in the municipalities of Anderlecht and Molenbeek. Its long history as an industrial working class neighbourhood is still visible in the streets with old industrial brick buildings and large properties standing the test of time.3

Economy

Bottom-up Globalization

Today, the local economy is dominated by the second-hand car trade and its adjacent businesses. After the closure of the slaughterhouses in the 60s it was the Lebanese immigrants living in the area establishing the new direction.4 With their international connections they established a global network shipping second hand cars and other goods worldwide, but mostly to western African countries. Cars from Belgium and other European countries are collected in the Heyvaertbuurt and stored in the former industrial buildings. By truck they get transported to the port of Antwerp and shipped towards their final destination. The large network of partners in the destination countries assures the arrival of the cars at their destination. 5 Over the years the Heyvaert neighbourhood has become the biggest exporter of second hand cars in Europe. The major economic shift, starting from the migrant community can be referred to as bottom-up globalization or globalization from below.6 This process is characterised by community-networks established by underprivileged parts of society across the global North and global South. It aims to "building bridges for marketing, trade and for cultural exchange" and can be a powerful tool in overcoming social injustices. 7 3 Ian Kuppens, Zuzanna Rucka, Claudia Scaravaggi, ‘The Heyvaert City Project, ’ (unpublished master studio project, University of Ghent, 2016), p. 11-13. 4 Ian Kuppens, Zuzanna Rucka, Claudia Scaravaggi 5 Saskia Vanderstichele, The complex microcosm of the Heyvaert district (1): the diagnosis (2021) <https://www.bruzz.be/stedenbouw/de-complexe-microkosmos-van-de-heyvaertwijk-1-dediagnose-2021-01-14> [accessed 22 March 2021]. 6 Scohier, Claire, Heyvaert ou les résistances ordinaires d’un quartier populaire (2018) <https:// www.ieb.be/Heyvaert-ou-les-resistances-ordinaires-d-un-quartier-populaire> [accessed 26 May 2021]. 7 IGI Global, What is Globalization from below (2021) <https://www.igi-global.com/dictionary/ information-literacy-digital-divide/12285> [accessed 9 June 2021].

Fragile Balance

Its history of migration, the globalised economy in the area and the history of secondary economy illustrates the resilience of the neighbourhood over the years. At the same time the Heyvaert neighbourhood rests on a fragile balance. With the land that is for now mostly still in the hands of car traders is highly contested in times of housing shortage and increasing real estate prices. Ultimately, it is a challenge preserving this unique resilient, yet fragile character of the neighbourhood while at the same time improving the quality of life for its residents. By tackling current issues of bad and dense housing condition, lack of green and a high unemployment rate.8

8 Ian Kuppens, Zuzanna Rucka, Claudia Scaravaggi, p. 27-31

Figure 4: Lisa Eisen, Destination of Socar Shipping Agencies, 2021, Based on <https://socar.be/ destination/> [last accessed 4 april 2021]

Heyvaert Neighbourhood

A Community in Jeopardy ?

Two Sides of a Story

Close to the Canal and Brussels Midi station, at the border between Anderlecht and Molenbeek - the Heyvaert neighbourhood is centrally situated. A prime location for housing in times when that is exactly what is missing. Instead, over 200.000m2 real estate is occupied by old cars.9 Cars that are no longer good enough to European standards are stored in the old industrial buildings and every free space in between. They are waiting to get shipped and sold off to Africa, manifesting western superiority. It is mostly immigrants who work and live in the area being constantly exposed to the noise, pollution, and contamination of the car trade. More than 120.000 cars are driven by truck from the Heyvaert neighbourhood to Antwerp every year.10 We are living in the 21st century with global warming and social injustice as our major challenges. Cars are a declining relict from the last century, outdated since long ago. The future lies in renewable energies, circular economy, and a sustainable lifestyle. Therefore, it is only evident to move the car trade and its nuisances out of the city centre. Replacing it with an economy that is not destroying the environment, compromising the health of its inhabitants, and reproducing global injustices. Since the 2000s there have been attempts of controlling the car trade by the government with doubled taxes, as well as environmental and labour compliances. The new regulations led to less pollution and safer working conditions but didn’t limit the flourishing businesses.11

9 Claire Scohier, Heyvaert et le Ro-Ro : les deux faces d’une seule et même pièce (2016) <https:// www.ieb.be/Heyvaert-et-le-Ro-Ro-les-deux-faces-d-une-seule-et-meme-piece> [accessed 26 May 2021]. 10 Philippe Matthis, Le nouveau terminal Ro-Ro au port de Bruxelles, une opportunité pour la région et le port (2014) <https://www.ieb.be/Heyvaert-et-le-Ro-Ro-les-deux-faces-d-une-seule-et-meme-piece> [accessed 26 May 2021]. 11 Saskia Vanderstichele, De complexe microkosmos van de Heyvaertwijk (1): de diagnose (2021) <https://www.bruzz.be/stedenbouw/de-complexe-microkosmos-van-de-heyvaertwijk-1-dediagnose-2021-01-14> [accessed 26 May 2021].

Heyvaert Neighbourhood

More recently another project aimed to change the neighbourhood fundamentally by relocating the second-hand car trade to ‘Brussels Voorhaven’. After several years of feasibility studies and planning, the Port of Brussels proposed the construction of a new transshipment platform in the Brussels Outer Harbour. The redevelopment of the 2,5-ha site is part of various strategic plans. The new Roll-on Roll-off platform is built for the loading and unloading of cars on barges.12 Shipping the cars from Brussels to the port of Antwerp instead of driving them by truck, would reduce the CO2 emissions by five times. Additionally, the relocation of the car trade would liberate over 200.000m2 in the Heyvaert area. The freeing plots due to the relocation of the car trade are the base for the different plans of the city.13 But even after the relaunch of a third procedure and financial assurance by the region the harbour has not received a single offer.14 But why this lack of interest in the tender, that was supported by every important institution of the government? Because of its long history as an industrial working-class neighbourhood the Heyvaert district has been side-lined by the government for decades resulting in dense and bad living conditions. Moreover, it was defined by its nuisances: “too dirty, too much noise, too many trucks, too many second-hand car shops, too many people in the street”.15 In the meanwhile, reinforced by the neglect of the authorities the neighbourhood established its own microcosm protecting their precarious living conditions. A safety-net built on the coexistence of economic activities, commerce, and affordable housing. The safety net did its job in successfully protecting the social fabric of the neighbourhood. And it is more needed than before with the many uncertainties, that the neighbourhood faces: the contradicting plans of public authorities as well as the declining car trade economy. Keeping the economy where it is close to the family and most importantly within the borders of the safety-net is the obvious answer to the uncertainty the traders face in the neighbourhood.16 Besides, years of disregard by the authorities doesn’t create trust in the plans of the city and their ability to protect the residents from being pushed out of the city centre.

12 port.brussels, Décision du CA du port de Bruxelles concernant le Ro-Ro (2018) <https://port. brussels/fr/actualites/decision-du-ca-du-port-de-bruxelles-concernant-le-ro-ro> [accessed 26 May 2021]. 13 Saskia Vanderstichele, De complexe microkosmos van de Heyvaertwijk (1): de diagnose (2021) <https://www.bruzz.be/stedenbouw/de-complexe-microkosmos-van-de-heyvaertwijk-1-dediagnose-2021-01-14> [accessed 26 May 2021]. 14 port.brussels 15 Martin Rosenfeld, Mathieu Van Criekingen, D’où vient et où va le quartier des voitures ?, free translation from French(2015) <https://www.ieb.be/D-ou-vient-et-ou-va-le-quartier-des-voitures> [accessed 26 May 2021]. 16 Claire Scohier, Heyvaert ou les résistances ordinaires d’un quartier populaire (2018) <https:// www.ieb.be/Heyvaert-ou-les-resistances-ordinaires-d-un-quartier-populaire> [accessed 26 May 2021].

Hamex

Facar Export

Mecar

III King

Abou-Zeid Group Karim Export

Mutual Dependence, mutual Care

“Because of undeclared work, the car trade provides a fragile safety net for hundreds of people who are outside the regular labour market.” Martin Rosenfeld, ULB17

From an outside view, there is no future for the car trade in the Heyvaert neighbourhood. But the situation is not as simple and obvious as it may appear. The second-hand car trade is deeply rooted in the neighbourhood and essential for the socio-economic safety net, that evolved over the years. Few big players, that own over half of the land area, established the international shipping network. Smaller car traders rely on these connections for their collaboration, focussing solely on the repair, purchase and selling of cars. The flourishing car trade with mostly western African countries attract traders to the neighbourhood along with the necessary infrastructure for them as well as local businesses for the large African community. Within these connections hides a large network of undeclared work and informal activities, ensuring financial independence for a big part of the neighbourhood.18 The economy relies on these interdependencies, carefully weaving a safety net for the neighbourhood. This socio-economic safety net evolved over years establishing a community. It has shaped the identity of the inhabitants, synergies and leading to social control among neighbours and a friendly atmosphere, which are reinforced by the immigrant communities.19 But the local economy does not only provide the livelihood for the families but protects the local community. The car trade and other businesses provide manual work for the low-skilled workers of the area, that have historically shaped in the area and its industrial heritage. At the same time, the nuisance and extensive subletting keep the rents low and gentrification away.20

Figure 5: Lisa Eisen, Economic activities, 2021, based on City Tools and plusofficearchitects, Projet de Plan d’Aménagement Directeur (Brussels: perspective. brussels, 2019), p. 25.

17 Saskia Vanderstichele, De complexe microkosmos van de Heyvaertwijk (1): de diagnose (2021) <https://www.bruzz.be/stedenbouw/de-complexe-microkosmos-van-de-heyvaertwijk-1-dediagnose-2021-01-14> [accessed 26 May 2021]. 18 Saskia Vanderstichele 19 Claire Scohier, Heyvaert ou les résistances ordinaires d’un quartier populaire (2018) <https:// www.ieb.be/Heyvaert-ou-les-resistances-ordinaires-d-un-quartier-populaire> [accessed 26 May 2021]. 20 Saskia Vanderstichele

Heyvaert Neighbourhood

Big Player

Abou Zeid

3 King

Hamex

Facar Export

Karim Export

Socar shipping

Rue Heyvaert 102, 1070 Anderlecht

Rue Heyvaert 47, 1080 Molenbeek-Saint-Jean

Rue Heyvaert 161, 1080 Molenbeek-Saint-Jean

Rue de Bonne 61, 1080 Molenbeek-Saint-Jean

Rue Heyvaert 40, 1080 Bruxelles

Rue des Mégissiers 36, 1070 Anderlecht

Heyvaert Neighbourhood

Car Trade

AL-DOU-SCS

Auto32 Plus

BDB International

carrosserie

European Bizness Cars

Garage Mikanik

GK Tyres

Karim Dep

V.I.P. Car wash

Car dealer

Vehicle body

Car tyre business

Vehicle parts

Repair shop

Sale - Purchase

Breakdown service

Heyvaert Neighbourhood

Garage

Car wash

Local Businesses

Africa Meat

Anatolie

Baig Food

Heyvaert Fashion

Kamdem

La Porte de Clignancourt

Butcher’s shop

Clothes shop

Snack

Wholesale

Exotic food shop

Restaurant

Les Amis de Bruxelles

Les Sentiers d’Afrique

Maquis Ivoire

Meuble Eco

Money Gram

Night shop

Sir-a-net

Tawhid travel

Troc Horeca

Hair salon

Furniture shop

Laundrette

Cosmetic shop

Money transfer

Travel agency

Heyvaert Neighbourhood

Hotel

Services

Constance in Uncertainty: the new Plans of the City

The rising real estate value sparked sudden interest in the Heyvaert neighbourhood: The Brussels Region, the Bouwmeester, the Municipalities of Molenbeek and Anderlecht, as well as Real Estate Developers share the same goal: transforming the neighbourhood with new apartments, social housing, bike paths, and parks. A playground for Urban planning with the best intentions. A short overview:

PAD

The Plan d’Amenagement Directeur was first approved by the government in Mai 2019. As a regional planning tool, it defines “in a single movement the strategic and regulatory aspects of an urban strategy.”21 It was developed by the urban planning agency City Tools and plusoffice architects following an initiative of perspective.brussels in collaboration with the Brussels Bouwmeester. The guiding plan follows an integrated holistic approach envisioning a long-term strategy for the next 10-20 years. It is focussed on: 22

- The preservation of the mixed character of the neighbourhood with different productive activities

- The construction of affordable housing, mixed with high quality apartments

- The creation of inviting public spaces (e.g., Petite Senne) and making inner areas accessible to the public

- Increasing social services supporting the area functioning as an arrival district

21 perspective.brussels, Plans stratégiques et réglementaires - Plan d'Aménagement Directeur (PAD), free translation from French (2018) <https://perspective.brussels/fr/plans-reglements/plansstrategiques-et-reglementaires-plan-damenagement-directeur-pad> [accessed 26 May 2021]. 22 Saskia Vanderstichele, The complex microcosm of the Heyvaert district (1): the diagnosis (2021) <https://www.bruzz.be/stedenbouw/de-complexe-microkosmos-van-de-heyvaertwijk-1-dediagnose-2021-01-14> [accessed 22 March 2021].

CRU.05

CRU.05, Contrat de Rénovation Urbaine, is an urban renewal program for the area of Heyvaert-Pointcaré. It aims to “improve public space and the urban network, to create infrastructure and housing and to promote environmental and economic quality.”23 The CRU is managed by the Brussels region in collaboration with perspective.brussels and urban.brussels as well as the local municipalities and other public administrations. Superimposed on the same area with the PAD, it operates in parallel, sharing a common vision for the neighbourhood.24 The program was published in November 2017 and approved in December 2017.25 The area of Heyvaert-Pointcaré is divided in five clusters: Pôle de la Sennette, Pôle Ninive, Pôle Poincaré, Pôle Canal, Abattoirs, and Pôle rives du Canal. The plan develops a vision for each cluster based on the four key strategies: overcome, connect, stimulate, and animate. This general vision is broken down into single project sheets, each encompassing one intervention on a specific site with a clear timeframe and a limited budget. Projects exceeding the time span of the CRU fall into the category of “slow urbanism” and are envisioned for the future.26 Finally, the single project sheets come together in a general Masterplan. Therefore, the CRU.05 represents more of a hands-on approach with specific projects within the framework of the PAD.

Petite Senne

The project ‘Petite Senne/ Sennette’ is part of the CRU.05 within the Pôle de la Sennette. By transforming the old riverbed of the ‘Petite Senne’ in a linear urban park it aims “to promote industrial heritage and reveal significant potential for reuse and development”.27 Adjacent to the greenery of the park, a pathway for cyclists and pedestrians provides a safe connection outside of traffic between the Heyvaert district and public transport. Additionally, social housing projects and other public facilities are envisioned along the park. Some parts of the project are already implemented, such as a park28 and intergenerational housing project29 in Molenbeek. They were realized within the framework of the Sustainable Neighbourhood Contract ‘Contrat de Quartier Durable Petite Senne’ from 2014-2018.30 The Plan Canal was initiated in 2015 as a collective project by the 23 perspective.brussels, Contrats de rénovation urbaine (CRU), free translation from French(2021) <https://perspective.brussels/fr/projets/perimetres-dintervention/contrats-de-renovation-urbaine-cru> [accessed 26 May 2021]. 24 perspective.brussels 25 JNC international, Ville ouverte, CRU.05 Heyvaert Poincaré, free translation from French(Brussels, 2017). 26 JNC international, Ville ouverte, p.5. 27 JNC international, Ville ouverte, p.13. 28 canal.bruxelles, Inauguration du parc récréatif Petite Senne à Molenbeek (2012) <https://canal. brussels/fr/content/inauguration-du-parc-récréatif-«petite-senne»-à-molenbeek> [accessed 26 May 2021]. 29 Habitat groupé-solidaire, Petite Senne (2021) <https://www.habitat-groupe.be/habitatalternatif/habitat-intergenerationnel/petite-senne/> [accessed 26 May 2021]. 30 Molenbeek 1080, Contrat de Quartier Durable Petite Senne (2018) <http://www.molenbeek. irisnet.be/fr/je-vis/developpement-urbain/contrat-de-quartier-durable-petite-senne-2014-2018> [accessed 26 May 2021].

Heyvaert Neighbourhood

Plan Canal

Brussels-Capital Region with the Bouwmeester, perspective.brussels, urban.brussels and the SAU (Société d’Aménagement Urbain). Over a period of ten years, it is focused on four main goals:31

- Keeping economic activities in the city and connecting places of living and work

- Providing adequate housing for all budgets - Creating public spaces, benefiting from the canal and the uncovering of the Petite Senne

- Offering inviting conditions for an open city Within this framework, the Plan Canal unites different projects such as the Ro-Ro platform.

Where is it going?

The different plans are superimposed on the Heyvaert site. Even though they operate on different scales, they share a global vision, and the different strategies are liked. The PAD, CRU.05 and Petite Senne rely on the relocation of the second-hand car trade. Many projects are envisioned on the freeing plots. Due to the failure of the Ro-Ro project these plots remain occupied and in the hands of the big players. Thus, leaving the future of the neighborhood in uncertainty and challenging the government to imagine different strategies. What is the future of these ambitions? Are they threatening the precious balance of the neighbourhood? The extensive analysis and research conducted on the neighbourhood brought its hidden structures and interdependencies to the foreground. As a result, they are more and more considered within the different urban plans and strategies. The failure of the Ro-Ro project in October 2018 forced a revaluation of the future of the Heyvaert site. Hopefully this will lead to a gradual transformation of the neighbourhood instead of rapid change and gentrification. Thus, standing a chance in preserving the uniqueness of the social fabric and providing a better future for its habitants instead of pushing them out. The main challenge lies in the balance between two sides: the improvement of the living conditions, an ecologically and socially sustainable development and additional housing on one hand; the preservation of the identity and heritage as well as protecting the social fabric and fragility of the neighbourhood on the other. The present uncertainty leaves the necessary leeway to negotiate both and redevelop the strategies in favour of finding the right balance.

31 Bouwmeester Maitre Architecte, Plan Canal (2021) <https://bma.brussels/plan-canal/> [accessed 26 May 2021].

Learning without School

03 Traces of Knowledge Commissionaires

The Story of Liverpoolstraat 61 52 Slaughterhouses and the Impact of Form Unlocking the Knowledge 64 Liverpoolstraat 61 67 Intersection

Figure 6: Lisa Eisen, West Facade, Brussels, 2021

Traces of Knowledge

Complex, uncertain, and fragile are terms I used describing the Heyvaert neighbourhood. It has become obvious, that the neighbourhood is more than what it appears to be at first sight. Within this very same complex, uncertain and fragile context I identified two fragments. Both represent manifestations of the previously discovered knowledge in space: The traces of knowledge. The second-hand car trade in the Heyvaert neighbourhood operates along two main axes: Heyvaertstraat and Liverpoolstraat. I am looking at the crossroad where the two streets intersect as a main location for the informal work of the so-called commissionaires. Following along the Liverpoolstraat in eastern direction we can find an old industrial building: The Liverpoolstraat 61. With its structure, history, and transformation it becomes the second fragment for the Design of ‘Learning without School’. While being located only two minutes apart, the two fragments are defined by very different characteristics. Liverpoolstraat 61 is a specific building, on a privately owned property with a very tangible structure, documented history, and physical traces of change throughout the years. The intersection on the other hand is a public space appropriated by the commissionaires, the spatial framework of their informal businesses. It only provides only a base for the intangible economic trajectory within the neighbourhood.

Learning without School

Figure 7: Lisa Eisen, Inside the first Floor, Brussels, 2021

Figure 8: Lisa Eisen, View inside, Brussels, 2021

Figure 9: Lisa Eisen, View through the Window, Brussels, 2021

Figure 10: Lisa Eisen, Facade, Brussels 2021

Learning without School

Commissionaires: The missing Link

My first impression of the neighbourhood was dominated by the enlivened streets and sidewalks. Upon a closer look, it stood out that the public space is mostly dominated by middle aged back men, hanging around in groups. Even though this appears to be a leisure activity, many of the men are working as so-called commissionaires. These intermediates are referring customers to the different garages in the area. Let’s imagine the scenario of Amadou, a businessman getting into the car trade from Senegal. He came all the way to Brussels looking for cars he will buy and later resell in his shop in Dakar. Most probably it is his first time in Brussels, and he has never been to the Heyvaert neighbourhood before. He found a room in a small hotel and manages his way quite well around the neighbourhood with small shops and restaurants offering food he is familiar with. But the streets and buildings filled with old cars are confusing and make it difficult for Amadou to find the right address to look for cars. On the other side of the scenario there is Oumar, originally from Guinea. He lives in the Heyvaert neighbourhood for over ten years, is married, and a proud father to his two daughters. He has worked in different car shops throughout the years and knows most of the people of the area. Looking to make some extra money in his free time, he is hanging around in the Liverpoolstraat, talking to some of his Guinean friends.32 Since he knows everyone in the neighbourhood by heart, he instantly makes out Amadou on the other side of the street. After a small discussion Oumar, recommends a small garage a bit further in the Heyvaertstraat to Amadou where he can look for some cars and good deal. Amadou is thankful for the help and Oumar for the additional money he gets for his service.

32 Hans Vandecandelaere, De Schaduw van Matonge, free translation from Dutch (Brussel: Erfgoedcel , 2011).

Learning without School

“Committee workers would be grouped by nationality standing: Mainly people from Guinea in Liverpool Street" Hans Vandecandelaere 34

The little scenario illustrates how the informal trade revolves around the second-hand car trade. Commissionaires like Oumar are a crucial part of this informal economy providing the livelihood for many people. They are the connecting link between the different layers of the safety-net working at the intersection of buyers and sellers. Their job requires a profound knowledge of the neighbourhood, the inhabitants and local economy. Being always present in the street-scape constitutes the characteristic atmosphere of the area. Moreover, it leads to informal surveillance and social control following the idea of eyes on the street by Jane Jacobs.33 At the same time, commissionaires are the most vulnerable part of the local economy, working in the shadow of the formal businesses. Their daily live is defined by uncertainty and the threat of unemployment. This illustrates the daily struggles of some inhabitants in the Heyvaert neighbourhood to make ends meet. Additionally, statistics show the dense living conditions in the area leading to many men spending their time outside in the first place.

33 Jane Jacobs, The death and life of great American cities (New York: Random House, 1961), Chapter 2. 34 Hans Vandecandelaere, De Schaduw van Matonge, free translation from Dutch (Brussel: Erfgoedcel , 2011).

Figure 12: Lisa Eisen, Liverpoolstreet north-west, Brussels, 2021

Figure 11: Lisa Eisen, Liverpoolstreet south-east, Brussels, 2021

Figure 14: Lisa Eisen, Heyvaertstreet south-west, Brussels, 2021

Figure 13: Lisa Eisen, Heyvaertsstreet north-east, Brussels, 2021

Learning without School

chicken coop and fence walls

1909

Rural Hamlet

construction of the leather factory

1921

Tannery

transformation and expansion of car boxes

1981

Import - Export business

uncovered cultural center transformation from meeting room to tearoom

The Story of Liverpoolstraat 61

This story starts almost two centuries ago when Brussels was about half its size and Anderlecht still called Cureghem. Meadows and mills illustrate the landscape close to the river “Petite Senne” that later brings cotton factories, dry cleaners, woollen mills, and laundries into the neighbourhood. Soon, the construction of the Canal de Charleroi in 1832 fuels the industrialization of the area.35 But until now the site in Rue de Liverpool 21 is still owned by Madame E. Carpentier who asks for the building permission of a chicken coop and fence walls on her property in 1909.36 With the construction of Abattoir market, the neighbourhood turns over a new leaf. Around the slaughterhouses other factories settle down, all of them working in the same field. The neighbourhood is now filled with butchers, meat wholesalers, tanneries and leather workers.37 In 1921 the plot in the Liverpoolstraat 61 becomes part of the new economy: The Maroquinerie Nationale commissions the leather factory building, that we still see today.38 The industry and newly built factories bring many workers into the area densifying the neighbourhood with cramped living conditions for the factory workers. Nevertheless, the promise of work attracts hard working immigrants fleeing the famine in the Flemish countryside as well.39

35 Ian Kuppens, Zuzanna Rucka, Claudia Scaravaggi, ‘The Heyvaert City Project, ’ (unpublished master studio project, University of Ghent, 2016), p. 10-13. 36 Carpentier, Permis de construction pour un poulailler et mures de clôture (1909), retrieved from the Anderlecht Archives. 37 Ian Kuppens, Zuzanna Rucka, Claudia Scaravaggi 38 Unknown, Usines à construire pour compte de la Maroquinerie nationale Rue de Liverpool Anderlecht, 1921, Archives d’architecture moderne, Inventaire visuel de l’architecture industrielle à Bruxelles, ed. by Archives d’architecture moderne ([n.p.]: , 1980). 39 Ian Kuppens, Zuzanna Rucka, Claudia Scaravaggi

Learning without School

Since that time the neighbourhood has never stopped accommodating immigrants from all around the world. The Flemish workers were followed by Jewish people fleeing the Nazi pogroms in Germany. After the war, guest workers from Italy, Spain, Greece, and other countries arrived in the area helping with the reconstruction works. Later, immigration agreements brought migrants from Morocco, Turkey, Tunisia, and Algeria to the neighbourhood. And most recently, waves of refugees from Eastern Europe after the fall of the Berlin wall, but also, from the Middle East and Africa settled in the area.40 These immigrants are the main characters within the neighbourhood, shaping its history, present and hopefully will be able to stay in the future. Coming back to the main character of this story: Liverpoolstraat 61. Architect M. Mennens designed the new factory building in 1921 for the Maroquinerie nationale. The sturdy structure is made of brick walls and concrete slabs between the two floors supported by closely standing columns. Big windows in between the brick pilasters characterize the façade and allow for the light to shine through. Behind the front building, with the machine room, two rear buildings follow; the last of which replaced the former oil mill of the Carpentiers.41 Around 50 years later the industrial economy declines and hygiene standards for the meat industry rise. The slaughterhouses become loss-making business. In1966 the abattoir market loses its permit of exportation and with the first petrol crises soon after the slaughterhouses have to close. This also means the end for the leather factory in the Liverpoolstraat. The neighbourhood is left with abandoned factory buildings, many unemployed workers and the need for a new economy.42 One again the neighbourhood turns over a new leaf. This time born from the structure of factory buildings in Liverpoolstraat 61 and other places in the neighbourhood. It is perfectly suited to store old cars before selling them overseas. Lebanese immigrants with their global business connections start the Belgo-Lebanese second-hand car trade. The new Import-export businesses expand quickly and soon become global players. The former machine hall of the leather tannery is now occupied by old cars from European countries waiting one behind the other, nose to tail to be transported by truck to the harbour of Antwerp. Thence they can start their journey across the ocean towards a second life, mostly in Western African countries.43

40 Ian Kuppens, Zuzanna Rucka, Claudia Scaravaggi, ‘The Heyvaert City Project, ’ (unpublished master studio project, University of Ghent, 2016), p. 10-13. 41 Unknown, Annexe 2: Description génerale des batiments, Fiche N° 42, 1921, Archives d’architecture moderne, Inventaire visuel de l’architecture industrielle à Bruxelles, ed. by Archives d’architecture moderne ([n.p.]: , 1980). 42 Ian Kuppens, Zuzanna Rucka, Claudia Scaravaggi 43 Saskia Vanderstichele, De complexe microkosmos van de Heyvaertwijk (1): de diagnose (2021) <https://www.bruzz.be/stedenbouw/de-complexe-microkosmos-van-de-heyvaertwijk-1-dediagnose-2021-01-14> [accessed 26 May 2021].

Adapting the building to this change, the new owner of Liverpoolstraat 61, Mister G. Raymond asks for the building permission to transform and expand the car boxes in 1981.44 Since then different businesses stored their cars in the ancient structure becoming an essential part of keeping the neighbourhood and its inhabitants together. Most recently some smaller demands tried build an uncovered cultural centre and transform a meeting room into a tearoom.45 But how does the next chapter of Liverpoolstraat 61 look like? Can it remain a crucial part for the neighbourhood?

44 Ghysels Raymond, Permi de bâti pour la transformation et l'agrandissement pour boxes de voitures (1982), retrieved from the Anderlecht Archives. 45 ERAZ sprl (Akchar Abdelchader), Demande de changement d'utilisation du 1er étage (2008), retrieved from the Anderlecht Archives.

Learning without School

Figure 15: Lisa Eisen, Liverpoolstreet, Brussels, 2021

Figure 16: Lisa Eisen, Street facade, Brussels, 2021

Figure 17: Lisa Eisen, Old Chimney, Brussels, 2021

Figure 18: Lisa Eisen, Inside the Groundfloor, Brussels, 2021

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Figure 19: Lisa Eisen, Rue de Liverpool 61, 1070 Anderlecht, Brussels, 2021

Slaughterhouses and the Impact of Form

“ The former industrial buildings of leather tanners, frigorists, animal traders and meat processors were with their solid floors, natural lighting and large surfaces especially suitable for car storage.” Hans Vandecandelaere 46

The anonymous buildings of the slaughterhouse industry were key to the transformation of the economy in the Heyvaert district. Their sturdy structure made of concrete and brick gave rise to the car trade by providing the storage space for second-hand cars before shipment. It was the available space, its atmosphere, and its form that enabled the change. Therefore, space and especially the form of a building has the power of affecting the future. The typology of the industrial tannery building with its generosity and simplicity offers many possibilities, able to adapt to the changing reality of life. Creating a statue of perpetuation in the shape of architecture, a form outlasts the changes of function. The theory of form is a central concept in Nicolas Bourriaud’s work ‘Relational Aesthetics’. The movement stems from the field of art criticism. He describes it as a “set of artistic practices which take as their theoretical and practical point of departure the whole of human relations and their social context, rather than an independent and private space.”47 Transferring his ideas onto the field of architecture, it is particularly relevant regarding public architecture such as learning spaces. Thus, starting a reflection on the role of architecture regarding human interactions. Looking at his concept of form, Nicolas Bourriaud defines form as “a coherent unit, a structure (independent entity of inner dependencies) which shows the typical features of the world”.48 An architectural building can be seen as a coherent unit with the static structure, ensuring its entity. Basic building elements such as walls, columns, beams, and slabs are contingent to one another. 46 Hans Vandecandelaere, De Schaduw van Matonge, free translation from Dutch (Brussel: Erfgoedcel , 2011). 47 A Guide To Relational Aesthetics (2018) <https://somethingcurated.com/2018/02/14/a-guideto-relational-aesthetics/> [accessed 26 May 2021]. 48 Nicolas Bourriaud, Relational Aesthetics, trans. by Simon Pleasance and Fronza Woods (France: les presses du réel, 1998), p. 19.

Learning without School

The composition of the different elements ensures the load transfer and stability of the building. This definition includes architecture, or a building in the concept of form. Bourriaud goes even further in his definition stating that artworks, the most prevalent representatives of form are only a fragment in the series of existing forms.49 Consequently, opening the concept of form to a broad spectrum of elements such as architecture.

“Form can be defined as a lasting encounter” Nicolas Bourriaud

Form does not only exist as a physical structure or a concrete object. Moreover, it is defined by its relations. Or in the words of Bourriaud: “Form can be defined as a lasting encounter”.50 He introduces interactions to the equation, which are possible on various levels. Encounters are obvious between the different building components resting on one another, thus composing the entity of a building. Extended onto the bigger scale, the surroundings of a building with their political, social, and economic context become relevant as well. Form doesn’t exist in an empty space, or a vacuum but only in relation to other elements. In the concept of Bourriaud ‘encounters’ are nothing less than the origin of the world. He refers to the materialistic philosophical tradition of Epicurus and Lucretius, whereupon the birth of the world derives from the encounter of atoms swerving off-course. The premise for the creation of the world is for this encounter to be a lasting one.51 Hence, referring to the architectural object of form, the building itself. But only the addition of human interactions gives texture to the material form and acquires real existence to the building. The form differs from the simple structure of a building as it emerges from the interplay of the built structure with its function, and how it is used. Looking at the former slaughterhouse building, its form accrued from the interplay of the structure with the context of the neighbourhood, the function, and the users. Previously, the workers of the tannery and now the businessmen and their activities make up the form of the building, that appears in between the consistency of the building and the fluctuation of its function in daily life. The different temporality of the lasting building and the ever-changing activity of daily life makes time an important aspect in the concept of form. The encounter of time with space produces form. “Form is a dynamic that is included both, or turn by turn, in time and space.”52 Therefore, form is never permanent but defined by constant change: always transforming and evolving in relation to one another. Bourriaud goes even further by stating that “Form can only come about from a meeting between two levels of reality.”53

49 Nicolas Bourriaud, Relational Aesthetics, trans. by Simon Pleasance and Fronza Woods (France: les presses du réel, 1998), p. 19. 50 Nicolas Bourriaud, p. 19. 51 Nicolas Bourriaud, p. 19. 52 Nicolas Bourriaud, p. 24. 53 Nicolas Bourriaud, p. 24.

Figure 20: J. De Waele, Nouveau plan de Bruxelles industriel avec ses suburbains, 1910, Archives d’architecture moderne, Inventaire visuel de l’architecture industrielle à Bruxelles, ed. by Archives d’architecture moderne ([n.p.]: , 1980).

Learning without School

“Producing form is to invent possible encounters” Nicolas Bourriaud 54

Ultimately, it is the change of function from tannery to car storage that shifted the building from a simple structure to a form of relational aesthetics. But it is the layout, and the design of the building, its architectural qualities that enabled that shift in the past and will continue shaping its form in the future. By looking at the building through Bourriaud’s theory of Relational aesthetics the architectural focus shifts from the material form towards spaces of encounter. “Producing form is to invent possible encounters.”54 He gives a design direction, emphasizing the interactions between the building and its users, urging to look beyond the formalistic aesthetics of space and into possible relationships and encounters. Putting emphasis on interaction rather than creation and space rather than the creator, the architect becomes an ambassador of space55 and architecture designed for the idea of an endless social encounter.

54 Nicolas Bourriaud, Relational Aesthetics, trans. by Simon Pleasance and Fronza Woods (France: les presses du réel, 1998), p. 23. 55 Relational Aesthetics and the Endless Chain of Spatial Encounters (2010) <https:// transnationalurbanism.wordpress.com/2010/09/17/relational-aesthetics-and-the-endless-chain-ofcontributions/> [accessed 26 May 2021].

Figure 21: Unknown, Usines à construire pour compte de la Maroquinerie nationale Rue de Liverpool Anderlecht, 1921, Archives d’architecture moderne, Inventaire visuel de l’architecture industrielle à Bruxelles, ed. by Archives d’architecture moderne ([n.p.]: , 1980).

Learning without School

Unlocking the Knowledge

Hidden behind the prejudice of a low-income neighbourhood with a long history of manual work and migration lies the multi-layered reality of the Heyvaert site. A community in between the local economy and social fabric that is held together by the safety-net. It creates a sense of belonging, identity, and care for its inhabitants – essentially a village within the city. Is this the village to raise a child? The two fragments are situated at the core of the neighbourhood both spatially and within the safety net. Adding learning spaces in this core of the neighbourhood adds awareness and value. It acknowledges the fragility and resilience of the community. Thus, reinforcing the social cohesion, independently from the car trade. By carefully inserting the learning spaces into the safety net, the local community is strengthened, in times when its existence and relevance is threatened by the declining car economy and the redevelopment plans of the city. The second-hand car economy is far from the desired, perfect image of the world we want to live and educate our kids in. I don’t want to deceive anyone, but I am looking deeper into the context trying to discover the possibilities behind what is perceived as negative. Creating a learning space not isolated by reality but in the heart of it. This follows the concept of integrating kids into society by the school as the first public building. The observations of the economic trajectory in the neighbourhood, the encounter with the inhabitants and the necessary safe space for individual growth become the key lessons for this integration. I believe it is not only the positive aspects that we can be taken as good examples. Moreover, looking at negative side of things triggers new ideas and calls for creative solutions. Being exposed to the social and ecological challenges from an early age, creates an awareness among kids. At the same time it creates a sensitivity for the complexity of reality.

Learning without School

Nevertheless, learning spaces connected to the second-hand car trade raise infinite questions of safety and protection. The design is situated between the poles of being exposed to the real world and at the same time its problems. Therefore, it tries to balance between the openness and interaction with the car trade while at the same time creating enough separation and intimacy for the children to flourish. This balance happens on one hand spatially through architectural elements creating a physical distance. On the other hand, the coexistence of the car trade and learning spaces requires understanding and negotiations. The fragments will become open spaces within the neighbourhood dedicated to learning. In contrast to the classical school building, it is not about classrooms strung along a hallway. It is about creating spatial opportunities with various shapes, sizes, and atmospheres using the potential embedded in the context and the existing structures. These spaces are designed for the kids of the neighbourhood, to play, experiment, discover and learn. But most importantly, the fragments act as platforms in between the neighbourhood and the children. Places of encounter, where people of all ages and backgrounds can meet and learn from one another.

Liverpoolstraat 61

Figure 22: Lisa Eisen, Groundfloor - Liverpoolstraat, Brussels, 2021

Figure 23: Lisa Eisen, 1. Floor - Liverpoolstraat, Brussels, 2021

Figure 24: Lisa Eisen, Section AA, Scale 1:200, Brussels, 2021

Learning without School

Figure 25: Lisa Eisen, Section BB, Scale 1:200, Brussels, 2021

Learning without School

Figure 26: Lisa Eisen, View, Window niche (original in S 1:10), Brussels, 2021

Figure 27: Lisa Eisen, Section, Window niche (original in S 1:10), Brussels, 2021

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Figure 28: Lisa Eisen, Markings on the First Floor, Brussels, 2021

Figure 30: Lisa Eisen, Model, View N°1, Brussels, 2021

Figure 29: Lisa Eisen, Model, View N°2, Brussels, 2021

Figure 31: Lisa Eisen, Model, View N°3, Brussels, 2021

Figure 32: Lisa Eisen, Outdoor Space, Brussels, 2021

Figure 33: Lisa Eisen, Roof windows over the Garage door, Brussels, 2021

Figure 34: Lisa Eisen, Back Facade, Brussels, 2021

Figure 35: Lisa Eisen, Entrance and spiral Staircase, Brussels, 2021

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Intersection

Figure 36: Lisa Eisen, Floorplan, Scale 1:150, 2021

Figure 37: Lisa Eisen, Elevation, Scale 1:150, 2021

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Figure 38: Lisa Eisen, Section AA, Scale 1:150, Brussels, 2021

Figure 39: Lisa Eisen, Section BB, Scale 1:150, Brussels, 2021

Learning without School

Figure 40: Lisa Eisen, Intersection model, Brussels, 2021

Figure 42: Lisa Eisen, Street perspective, Brussels, 2021

Figure 41: Lisa Eisen, new Tower, Brussels, 2021

Figure 43: Lisa Eisen, Roof window and terrace, Brussels, 2021

Epilogue

School Typologies 95 Looking at the big Picture

“If we teach today as we taught yesterday we rob our children of tomorrow” John Dewey 55

Figure 44: Otto von Corvin, The Great Library of Alexandria, 19th century, < https://commons. wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Ancientlibraryalex.jpg> [accessed 22 march 2021]

55 John Dewey, quoted in Emilija Juodytė, ‘Unbind the School: Renovation goals for school buildings built in 1970-1990 in Soviet districts of Vilnius‘ (unpublished master thesis, Royal Academy of Art The Hague, 2015), p. 5.

Epilogue

Gymnasion

776 BC

PREDYNASTIC PERIOD EGYPT

Invention of Papyrus

3500 BC

ANCIENT GREECE

First Olympic Games

Origin of Schools

Auditorium Monastery Schools

1450

MIDDLE AGES EUROPE

Invention of Printing

MIDDLE KINGDOM CHINA

Death of Confucius

479 BC

Public Schools Democraticing Education

Secularization of Primary Education

INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION EUROPE

BELGIAN MONARCHY

Compulsory and free Education

1919

1869

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Campus Schools

AFTER SECOND WORLD WAR

De-schooling Education - Ivan Illich

1971

TODAY

Looking at the big Picture

Scriptorium & Auditorium

Patios

Everything started in front of a library in Upper Egypt during the predynastic period. Education and knowledge were directly linked to the art of writing, with students copying original scripts under the careful watch of teachers. The entity of temple, scriptorium and library show the strong bond between politics, religion, and education as well as its high status in society. Yet, the access to education was a big privilege, guiding students at the threshold of adulthood into society. Consequently, the origin of what can be seen as the first school already manifests its place in between the private home and society.56 While the scriptorium in Egypt was intended on transmitting knowledge through writing, education in the middle kingdom of China focussed on the spoken word. Thus, introducing the typology of an auditorium and the public lecture. Preaching their knowledge elevated the status of teachers as a respected public figure; some such as Confucius even up to the level of religious leaders.57 The Ancient Greece brought not only the Olympic Games to modern society but strongly impacted the way we see education today. Uniting intellectual education with physical activities looks at physical and mental health as a one. Hence, leading to a building typology with a large courtyard for physical training, surrounded by study rooms.58 The courtyard typology also dominates monastery architecture in the Middle Ages in Europe with cloisters dedicated to reciting biblical texts. This shows the close relationship between education and religion during that time, when the church had the monopoly of education. The detailed copying of religious texts by monks resembles the function of a scriptorium in Egypt. Both became obsolete with the invention of printing in 1440.59 56 Hans Wolfgang Hoffmann, '5500 Years of Detention', in Construction and Design Manual School Buildings, ed. by Natascha Meuser(Berlin: DOM publishers, 2014), p. 10-33 57 Hans Wolfgang Hoffmann 58 Hans Wolfgang Hoffmann 59 Christopher McFadden, The Invention and History of the Printing Press (2018) <https:// interestingengineering.com/the-invention-and-history-of-the-printing-press> [accessed 5 June 2021].

Because of the close link of education with religious and political power, schools stayed out of reach for a major part of society for centuries. In Belgium schools only became independent and accessible for everyone as a public institution in 1867. During this period of industrialization, the building itself had the main purpose of protecting the students from wind and weather. Just like it aimed to remain separated from other parts of life as counterproposal to the rough life in the countryside.60

Campus Schools

In the 20th century the reform pedagogy and the open-air movement opened the discussion on education. By trying to create an alternative perfect reality for the children to learn and reconnect with the nature, they challenged established theories. The connection with nature was also part of the functionalist program for schools built after the second world war. Following modernist planning principles and US-American examples the typology of campus schools was mostly located at the outskirts of the city. The distance to the city centre creates a separate village dedicated to education, isolated from other activities, and heavily relying on individual vehicles. Campus schools built in the 60s and 70s can be seen as the peak of trying to create a separate reality for kids to learn outside the challenges of real life.61

Today

More recently, different movements are questioning this isolated approach to learning. Authors like Ivan Illich in his book ‘De-schooling of Society’ argue that the school system promotes inequality and reproduces social injustice. New schools today emerge in different contexts, ranging across different scales and typologies. Community schools as the most current typology unite the function of a school with that of a community centre. Thus, opening the school towards its surroundings and re-placing it again at the centre of the community.62 Looking at school throughout history shows the constant evolution in relation to the local context and period of time. The wide range of typologies demonstrate endless possibilities for spaces of learning. New inventions or historic events have always shaped the way kids are educated. In the framework of this Master Dissertation, I imagine a different one. We are living in times, when knowledge is available at any time and place thanks to modern technology. Education as an institution transmitting knowledge is outdated. It rises the need to rethink and education: Less institutionalized, but more open and integrated into daily live.

60 Maarten Van Den Driessche, 'The Rise of the Open School: pedagogical ideas, spatial models ', in School in de Stad in de School(Brussels: ASP, 2012), p. 17-32. 61 Maarten Van Den Driessche 62 Maarten Van Den Driessche

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Epilogue

One development that is very recent, is the shift away from a teaching authority towards horizontal hierarchies. Breaking down the power hierarchies between teachers and students. Valuing and encouraging the opinion of the kids and their independence. By integrating a learning space in the socio-economic safety net of the neighbourhood, I am trying to break the vertical hierarchies of formal education on an urban and architectural level. The way schools have been situated in relation to their surroundings has seen many major changes. The relationship between the building and its context also reflects on how education is seen by society in general: A refuge from the challenges of daily life or an essential part of the local community, as the two extremes. I am situating my design close to the second end of the spectrum by proposing learning spaces in the centre of the neighbourhood. By giving education the space at the heart of society in the centre of a neighbourhood and its community I want to shift the focus back on education. As architects we don’t design the education-process, but spaces dedicated to learning. We provide the stage for change to happen. Additional space that can become a catalyst for change opening the possibility for reinvention. Opening schools to its surroundings goes in both directions: It enables the kids to get out into the neighbourhood while at the same time inviting outsiders to come in. This mutual exchange and interaction fascinated me during the design. At the same time, it is a very intangible objective with many factors at play. A fragile balance that can easily fail with its success only able to be determined after the completion of the project. The same factor making such a design exiting, leaves endless possibilities to fail. Nevertheless, I consider the design as a small but important piece within the bigger picture. Not only in relation to how kids learn in- and outside of school, but also regarding the way we look at underprivileged neighbourhoods and architectural heritage. During the last year researching the Heyvaert neighbourhood I learned a lot about its history, identity, and challenges. It became a huge source of inspiration, not only for the final project but for my vision as an architect: considering design as a tool to create change. Hence, acknowledging the responsibility of architects towards a design and the attitude to what is already existing. Focussing on how to interact with what the existing instead of imposing something new and disconnected to the surroundings.

101

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105

List of Figures

109

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Vanderstichele, Saskia, The complex microcosm of the Heyvaert district (1): the diagnosis (2021) <https://www.bruzz.be/ stedenbouw/de-complexe-microkosmos-van-de-heyvaertwijk-1-dediagnose-2021-01-14> [accessed 22 March 2021].

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List of Figures

Figure 1:

Lisa Eisen, Rue du Compas, 1070 Anderlecht, Brussels, 2021

Katharine Ambrose, My townships are about people in a community, 2019, photo by the artist, <https:// katharineambrose.com/2019/12/06/248/> [accessed 20 march 2021]

Figure 3:

Lisa Eisen, Shadows, Brussels, 2021

Figure 4:

Lisa Eisen, Destination of Socar Shipping Agencies, 2021, Based on <https://socar.be/destination/> [last accessed 4 april 2021]

Lisa Eisen, Economic activities, 2021, based on City Tools and plusofficearchitects, Projet de Plan d’Aménagement Directeur (Brussels: perspective. brussels, 2019), p. 25.

Figure 6:

Lisa Eisen, West Facade, Brussels, 2021

Figure 7:

Lisa Eisen, Inside the first Floor, Brussels, 2021

Figure 8:

Lisa Eisen, View inside, Brussels, 2021

Figure 9:

Lisa Eisen, View through the Window, Brussels, 2021 44

Figure 10:

Lisa Eisen, Facade, Brussels 2021

Figure 11:

Lisa Eisen, Liverpoolstreet north-west, Brussels, 2021 49

Figure 12:

Lisa Eisen, Liverpoolstreet south-east, Brussels, 2021

Figure 13:

Lisa Eisen, Heyvaertstreet south-west, Brussels, 2021 50

Figure 14:

Lisa Eisen, Heyvaertsstreet north-east, Brussels, 2021 50

Figure 2:

Figure 5:

109

Figure 15:

Lisa Eisen, Liverpoolstreet, Brussels, 2021

Figure 16:

Lisa Eisen, Street facade, Brussels, 2021

Figure 17:

Lisa Eisen, Old Chimney, Brussels, 2021

Figure 18:

Lisa Eisen, Inside the Groundfloor, Brussels, 2021

Figure 19:

Lisa Eisen, Rue de Liverpool 61, 1070 Anderlecht, Brussels, 2021

Figure 20:

J. De Waele, Nouveau plan de Bruxelles industriel avec ses suburbains, 1910, Archives d’architecture moderne, Inventaire visuel de l’architecture industrielle à Bruxelles, ed. by Archives d’architecture moderne ([n.p.]: , 1980). 60

Figure 21:

Unknown, Usines à construire pour compte de la Maroquinerie nationale Rue de Liverpool Anderlecht, 1921, Archives d’architecture moderne, Inventaire visuel de l’architecture industrielle à Bruxelles, ed. by Archives d’architecture moderne ([n.p.]: , 1980). 62

Figure 22:

Lisa Eisen, Groundfloor - Liverpoolstraat, Brussels, 2021 70

Figure 23:

Lisa Eisen, 1. Floor - Liverpoolstraat, Brussels, 2021

Figure 24:

Lisa Eisen, Section AA, Scale 1:200, Brussels, 2021 73

Figure 25:

Lisa Eisen, Section BB, Scale 1:200, Brussels, 2021

Figure 26:

Lisa Eisen, View, Window niche (original in S 1:10), Brussels, 2021

Lisa Eisen, Section, Window niche (original in S 1:10), Brussels, 2021

Figure 27:

110

Figure 28:

Lisa Eisen, Markings on the First Floor, Brussels, 2021 79

Figure 29:

Lisa Eisen, Model, View N°1, Brussels, 2021

Figure 30:

Lisa Eisen, Model, View N°2, Brussels, 2021

Figure 31:

Lisa Eisen, Model, View N°3, Brussels, 2021

Figure 32:

Lisa Eisen, Outdoor Space, Brussels, 2021

Figure 33:

Lisa Eisen, Roof windows over the Garage door, Brussels, 2021

Figure 34:

Lisa Eisen, Back Facade, Brussels, 2021

Figure 35:

Lisa Eisen, Entrance and spiral Staircase, Brussels, 2021 82

Bibliography

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Figure 36:

Lisa Eisen, Floorplan, Scale 1:150, 2021

Figure 37:

Lisa Eisen, Elevation, Scale 1:150, 2021

Figure 38:

Lisa Eisen, Section AA, Scale 1:150, Brussels, 2021

Figure 39:

Lisa Eisen, Section BB, Scale 1:150, Brussels, 2021

Figure 40:

Lisa Eisen, Intersection model, Brussels, 2021

Figure 41:

Lisa Eisen, Street perspective, Brussels, 2021

Figure 42:

Lisa Eisen, new Tower, Brussels, 2021

Figure 43:

Lisa Eisen, Roof window and terrace, Brussels, 2021 90

Figure 44:

Otto von Corvin, The Great Library of Alexandria, 19th century, < https://commons.wikimedia.org/ wiki/File:Ancientlibraryalex.jpg> [accessed 22 march 2021] 94