Adaptive reuse of the farmstead 'Het Hobos': ecological approach to heritage

Abstract

In Overpelt stands the hidden pearl Het Hobos. This is a farm surrounded by a large natural landscape. The history of the landscape goes back to the 16th century. The current building complex consists of four buildings situated around a central courtyard. The oldest buildings date back to the 18th century. The Hobos farm is a beautiful site that is, unfortunately, a victim of time. Restoration and adaptive reuse are therefore highly desired. Because of its history and location, a new ecologically focused program will take place.

This thesis contains the preliminary research and process of the final project of the International Master of Adaptive Reuse. The project is about the adaptive reuse of the site of the Hobos farm and surrounding landscape in Overpelt. Through historical research and analysis of the surroundings, the central topic of the thesis was determined.