Architect @ Work 2025

15/16 May 2025 - Architect@Work in Kortrijk .

On the occasion of this edition of Architect@Work, architects and concrete experts went back in search of innovative applications of precast concrete in the light of 'Experimental Concrete'. This year, the focus was on the exceptional lifespan of concrete. Designers and manufacturers responded to the changing functionality and aesthetics of concrete elements over time. The presented prototypes are not finished products but the results of a process, intended to inspire and stimulate discussion.

Experimental concrete is an initiative of FEBELARCH and FEBELCEM, based on a concept by Hans Köhne and Siebe Bakker.

One of the designs is based on the construction method of Frans De Medts. A demo model was developed in concrete consisting of straight battens and uprights, supplemented with 4 bent uprights to give the whole a certain stability. The limits of producibility were sought and ultimately square beams were cast with a thickness of only 6 cm, reinforced with classic reinforcement and steel fibres. In order to realise the connection of the beams to each other, M6 screw sleeves were concreted into the horizontal beams and holes were cut out in the uprights. The demonstration model was realised thanks to the dedication, passion and knowledge of Enjoy Concrete from Veurne.