Space Challenge Conquered with MVHR Success Story at Meadow Herent

40 new apartments in Herent were equipped with DucoBox Energy Comfort 325 MVHR systems. Despite limited space, an E30 energy level was achieved in this fossil-free project by Binst Architecture.

Project overview

Project : Meadow Herent - 40 new-build flats
Localisation : Herent, near Leuven and Brussels
Architect : Binst Architects
Installer : Future Clima (Tim Claes)
Ventilation system: MVHR (DucoBox Energy Comfort)
Durability: Fossil-free development with E-level E30 or lower

Project Meadow in Herent is a unique new-build complex of 40 flats that strikes the perfect balance between natural living and urban connectivity. Located within cycling distance of Leuven and close to Herent station, this project offers a low-traffic environment where families, active seniors and young professionals can enjoy peace and greenery, whilst being within fifteen minutes' cycle of bustling Leuven.

Architectural concept and sustainability ambition

Leading architect Binst Architecture designed an original, contemporary form that makes optimal use of all the site's assets. The project forms a further evolution of the neighbourhood, where coherence and diversity on a human scale are central. With a resolute focus on sustainability, Meadow strives for fossil-free development with near energy-neutral buildings.

The flats in the latest phase (Dahlia and Eglantier) achieve an impressive E-level of E30 or lower, resulting in very low energy consumption for heating, ventilation, cooling and hot water. This sustainable approach with an eye to the future ensures that each flat retains its value.

Challenges and problem statement

Space constraints

Noise management

Besides the spatial constraints, "the noise levels of the unit" also played a crucial role. In a residential environment where comfort and quality of life are paramount, it was essential that the ventilation systems contribute to a peaceful living experience without disturbing sounds.

EPB requirements and sustainability objectives

The project had to meet strict energy performance requirements to achieve the ambitious E30 level, which posed specific technical requirements for the ventilation system.

System choice and technical specifications

Why DucoBox Energy Comfort 325

"The MVHR system, DucoBox Energy Comfort, was prescribed by the consulting engineers and was also necessary for the EPB. The specific choice for the DucoBox Energy Comfort 325 was both technically and regulatorily motivated",Tim Claes informs.

Technical specifications DucoBox Energy Comfort 325 :

Balanced ventilation with heat recovery
Capacity: Up to 550 m³/h, perfectly matched to flat size
Weight: Only 21 kg, enabling single-person installation
Intelligent demand control: Based on CO2 and humidity for optimal efficiency
100% software-based left/right exchange via patented double bypass principle

Benefits for the Meadow project:

EPB compliance: The system was necessary to meet energy performance requirements
Space optimisation: Compact dimensions ideal for tight plant rooms
Energy savings: Intelligent operation supports the E30 objective
Installation ease: Automatic commissioning and lightweight construction

Installation process and collaboration

Preparation and communication

The project's success was partly due to excellent preparation and communication. "We were very well informed from the beginning about the technical characteristics of the units, which certainly helped the preparation and final installation," emphasises Tim Claes.

Innovative solutions

The project utilised the latest technology in MVHR. The choice of DucoBox Energy Comfort 325 proved to be the ideal solution for the project's specific challenges, where the compact dimensions and intelligent functions perfectly matched the requirements.

Crucial success factors

Extensive technical briefings beforehand on DucoBox Energy Comfort 325
Optimal use of compact dimensions (21 kg) for straightforward installation
Automatic commissioning functions for quick and quality installation
Proactive approach to spatial challenges with intelligent system

Technical performance and benefits

The installed DucoBox Energy Comfort 325 system excels in multiple aspects.

Results and experiences

The project is currently in the completion phase. "The flats are not yet occupied," indicates Tim Claes. This means the definitive occupant performance is yet to be evaluated, but the technical installation has been successfully completed.

Installer's satisfaction

Future Clima's experience with this project was very positive, evident from their willingness for future collaboration.

Lessons learned and future perspective

The Meadow project has provided valuable insights:

Importance of early communication: Extensive technical briefings beforehand are crucial
Innovation as solution: New technologies can overcome spatial constraints
Collaboration as success factor: Close consultation between all parties is essential

Future collaboration

"We will certainly look again for new collaboration in the future," confirms Tim Claes. This positive experience opens doors for further projects in the residential sector.

Recommandations

For comparable projects, the following recommendations can be made:

Early involvement : Involve installation specialists from the design phase
Space optimisation: Invest in adapted systems for tight spaces
Noise management: Prioritise quiet systems in residential applications
Innovation openness: Remain open to new technologies and models

Conclusion

Project Meadow in Herent demonstrates how technical challenges can be transformed into success stories through good preparation, intelligent system choices and close collaboration. The installation of DucoBox Energy Comfort 325 systems by Future Clima has contributed to realising a sustainable housing project that meets the highest demands for energy performance and living comfort.

With its fossil-free development and E30 performance, Meadow symbolises the future of sustainable living, where comfort and technical excellence go hand in hand. The project proves that with the right systems like the DucoBox Energy Comfort 325 - with its intelligent demand control and compact installation - even the most challenging installations can result in solutions that are both technically and commercially successful.

Our partners in this project

Installer: Future Clima
Architect: Binst Architects