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Ontspoor

An obsolete building, previously used to repair train locomotives, is transformed into an interactive cafĂ© along a busy pedestrian track while honoring its rich heritage. Ontspoor means “to derail” in the Dutch language. Mobile furniture on the track activates the public space, while the interior creates cozy spaces for a morning or afternoon coffee to and from the Leuven train station.

The design concept is to break-up the very linear existing building into three distinct settings: an entrance courtyard, a dining hall with a variety of table and lounge seating, and an enclosed garden courtyard

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