Architectural Conservation Trust

The Architectural Conservation Trust brings together an exceptional architectural legacy by uniting the lives and works of four generations of visionary architects: Jozef Schellekens, Carli Vanhout & Paul Schellekens, Luc Vanhout & Bart Janssens (Architects In Motion) and Toon Vanhout. This initiative pays tribute to their vision, dedication and legacy and bridges the past, present and future.

Architecture is about more than building structures; it is the creation of a lasting dialogue between eras, materials and ideas. Within the Schellekens-Vanhout family, this dialogue has spanned generations, always placing a strong emphasis on innovation, functionality and respect for the existing context.

Under the leadership of Luc Vanhout, the grandson of Jozef Schellekens and son of Carli Vanhout, and his son, curator Jan Vanhout, the Architectural Conservation Trust is committed to making this heritage accessible to the broader public. Their goal is not only to preserve plans and designs, but also to share knowledge and insights in order to spotlight the impact of this architectural legacy. Respecting heritage means more than simply restoration. It is about recognising the cultural and historical value of buildings, designs and ideas, and creating a platform where they can continue to inspire. By opening the archives and highlighting architectural history, the Architectural Conservation Trust underlines just what a lasting influence this family has had on architecture throughout Belgium and beyond.

To make this rich history tangible, we organise guided tours of various architectural sites, including Steenweg op Mol (the house of Jozef Schellekens), Parklaan 146 and the Zonnehuis (designed by Carli Vanhout and Paul Schellekens). During these tours, visitors are given the opportunity to discover not only the design and underlying vision of each building but also to hear the stories hidden behind each detail.

In addition, bespoke walking and cycling routes can be put together so that visitors can experience the architectural heritage within a broader urban or landscape context. It is also possible for those who wish to experience the architecture in an even more immersive way to book certain houses for different activities, such as exclusive overnight stays, inspiring events, photo shoots or other experiences in a unique architectural setting.

To make the heritage even more accessible, we are building generational websites that function as both biographical and inventory archives. These digital platforms offer an in-depth insight into the life and work of the architects involved, with historical documents, drawings, photographs and background information about their projects. In this way, their ideas and legacy will be preserved and can serve as a source of inspiration for new generations of architects, researchers and architecture enthusiasts.

In an ever-changing architectural world, the Architectural Conservation Trust aims to increase awareness about the importance of heritage. Not everything needs to be restored to be of value—sometimes it is enough to document, understand and share the history. This initiative not only honours the architects of the past, but also provides a source of inspiration for future generations. Architecture is not only a product of its time, but also a foundation for what is yet to come.