This Renovation Story explores the potential of vacant office buildings, often referred to as "Sleeping Giants”, to be converted into housing. Many European cities are facing a high proportion of vacant office spaces, which contrasts with the growing demand for affordable housing. Brussels is especially affected by this issue, with roughly 1 million square meters of empty office space. In response, local actors are exploring ways to address this challenge, asking: What should be done with the sleeping giants?

The story introduces three different strategies by three distinct actors for addressing office vacancy: an activist, a developer, and an architect. These actors use a variety of methods, ranging from temporary uses to permanent transformation, to repurpose buildings. The strategies cover everything from bottom-up initiatives like interim activations for artists and activists to top-down development and housing projects. The aim is to revitalize vacant office areas and turn them into functional spaces that meet the needs of the community.

Among the protagonists is Oana Bogdan, an architect, former politician, and policy advisor, who, along with her office &bogdan, successfully converted an old office block into residential units. The project "The Cosmopolitan" was made possible through changes in building regulations, tax incentives for renovation and transformation, and the flexibility of the existing structure.

Visit the website of &bogdan