Cavell Court

In 1915, amidst the turmoil of World War I, Cavell Court began its life not as a residential haven, but as a hospital. The Edith Cavell Hospital, a beacon of hope in a time of conflict. Cavell Court stands as a testament to the changing landscape of Brussels. It evolved over the decades, expanding horizontally with successive buildings, nestled within a growing residential and commercial hub. By the 1970s, the city’s densification forced the hospital skyward, resulting in a prominent 12-story tower. Basements were transformed into operating theaters, maximizing the limited space. Yet, the relentless urban growth eventually led to the hospital’s relocation in the early 2000s. Accessibility issues and the need for further expansion prompted the move to the Chirec Delta site in Auderghem. The developers Burco and AG Real Estate saw an opportunity in the abandoned site. They envisioned transforming this 23,000 m² space into a vibrant mixed-use complex. Their challenge was to seamlessly integrate the former hospital into the existing urban fabric. Cavell Court now showcases their vision. The five original buildings were redesigned to echo the neighboring mansions, using natural stone and other high-quality materials. This creates a harmonious blend of old and new. What was once a degraded storage area at the heart of the complex is now a lush, 2,000 m² shared garden, a tranquil oasis for residents. The old red brick wing facing Rue Marie Depage made way for three new five-story residential buildings, crowned with elegant penthouses. The iconic tower, a reminder of the site’s past, underwent a dramatic transformation. Hollowed out and restructured, it now houses luxurious apartments with terraces and soaring 3-meter ceilings. As a nod to its history, a 2,000 m² polyclinic still operates within the complex, adding to its diverse character. Cavell Court now encompasses 19,000 m² of above-ground space, offering a mix of 145 residential units, shops, the verdant garden, and the polyclinic. Cavell Court is more than just bricks and mortar. It represents a successful urban regeneration project, breathing new life into a historic site while respecting its past.