Canopy structure for UZ Leuven campus Gasthuisberg

Large steel canopies that provide both shelter and coverage, transforming the street into a space that is more than just a passageway or entrance

For Rode Straat on the Health & Sciences campus Gasthuisberg in Leuven, NU designed large steel canopies that provide both shelter and cover, transforming Rode Straat into a high-quality public space. These geometric structures are part of a catalogue of connecting elements that balance architecture and furniture, inspired by the idea of approaching the hospital site as a public space – as a compact urban ensemble.

The steel canopies are arranged rhythmically and form a chain of triangular structures. They address the technical challenges of building on top of the intensive care unit, where the foundation possibilities are limited. Form and function are closely intertwined here. Stability, water drainage and protection become a strong whole, with the form directly resulting from the need to drain rainwater efficiently.

The canopy was awarded the Steel Prize 2024 in the Architectural Elements category.

client UZ Leuven
location Leuven
status opgeleverd
icw Erik D'hont (landschap)
realisation Verhofsté
engineering office Studiebureau Mouton
nominations & awards Staalprijs 2024
team NU Francesco Mino, Olivier Van Calster, Halewijn Lievens