Den Hygge is a place where enjoying the simple things in life is central, and preferably with nice people around you. This Danish concept fits in with the style and, atmosphere that the renovated service center has been given. This place, which is centrally located in Mechelen, is an anchor point in the neighborhood.
As a result of the Bachelor's thesis 2020, we researched the shortcomings of service center Den Deigem in Mechelen. With regard to an ongoing research project in the study area Architecture, our bachelor thesis was determined. This attempts to raise the social awareness of the designer in the field of interior architecture. We have to conceptualize the redesign and expansion of this complex. Hereby we searched for creative solutions to optimize the aesthetics and functionality of the center.
The plan is largely opened up with an entrance at both sides of the building. This makes the service center very accessible. As a result of these modifications, we were able to create a very clear circulation. Left of the entrance is the 'quiet room' where people can study and borrow books.
In the centre you will find the cafeteria. In this open space you can consume food and drinks, alone or with some company.
This space has an adjoining terrace that is bordered by large windows that function as folding doors. On hot summer days you can slide these all the way open, reducing the indoor-outdoor boundary, so you can easily make your way to the terrace.
As we then continue, you pass the kitchen. In this circulation path, there is zenithal light, which starts from the meeting room and ends at the multipurpose room. This multipurpose room is also equipped with a checkroom and separate entrance.
The second entrance to Den Hygge can be reached via the Langestraat. We have added this entrance, resulting in a larger accessibility for the new service center. in this section you’ll find some more office spaces. In the right bottom of the plan are some more semi-public spaced located. These functions still belong to the service center itself, but can also work on their own. This section houses a hairdresser, pedicurist, laundry rooms, washing and drying area. There is also a lending service where local residents can borrow tools.
In the centre you will find the cafeteria. In this open space you can consume food and drinks, alone or with some company.
This space has an adjoining terrace that is bordered by large windows that function as folding doors. On hot summer days you can slide these all the way open, reducing the indoor-outdoor boundary, so you can easily make your way to the terrace.
As we then continue, you pass the kitchen. In this circulation path, there is zenithal light, which starts from the meeting room and ends at the multipurpose room. This multipurpose room is also equipped with a checkroom and separate entrance.
The second entrance to Den Hygge can be reached via the Langestraat. We have added this entrance, resulting in a larger accessibility for the new service center. in this section you’ll find some more office spaces. In the right bottom of the plan are some more semi-public spaced located. These functions still belong to the service center itself, but can also work on their own. This section houses a hairdresser, pedicurist, laundry rooms, washing and drying area. There is also a lending service where local residents can borrow tools.
On the plan you see the service center marked in orange. Den Deigem, original name of the remodelled service center, is locatted in the dense city center. Den Hygge is surrounded by residential neighborhoods and one small park around the corner. To conclude, this service center is a great asset to this vibrant neighborhood.