On June 6th, the local department of the JCI (Junior Chamber International) organised, with support of the city of Aalst and Voka, the initiative "Rumbling Sustainability". It paid attention to the way in which Aalst handles sustainability in actual projects. In het O.L.Vrouw hospital the visitors were guided by architects of VK STUDIO, designer of the new extension.

Part of the event namely consisted of visits to sustainable projects, including the O.L.Vrouw hospital. Although a hospital has some very specific concerns, the extension of the hospital proves that sustainable solutions are also possible within a strictly medical environment. The sustainable aspect is present in the new construction (45.000 mē) through green roofs, floor heating, well-thought out insulation and solar protection. The new main entrance with photovoltaic cells is the solution that most catches the eye. The cells not only generate energy, but also shield the entrance hall from too much heat.

VK STUDIO doesn't treat sustainability as a trend, as is proved by the new Sint-Maarten hospital in Mechelen and the H.-Hart hospital Roeselare-Menen. Those projects will also integrate various sustainable solutions.