Construction campus parking building gets striking light facade

Since today, the parking building of Building Campus 2.0 has a striking light façade. Economic director POM Limburg activated the new installation, which should increase visibility along University Avenue. The dynamic lighting is a new element in the further development of campus Limburg DC.

The lighting design was developed by Genk-based company Painting With Light, which devised a fully dynamic system for the north and east facade of the parking building. A total of about 1,600 metres of pixel-controlled LED strips will be installed. These consist of thousands of tiny points of light that can be controlled individually, enabling colour gradients, patterns or simple figures and text.

Recognisable look
According to POM Limburg, the new façade should above all contribute to a recognisable and contemporary appearance of the campus. "We want this building to manifest itself clearly along University Avenue both during the day and at night, without being overly present," says deputy and POM chairman Tom Vandeput. "With this lighting, Limburg DC will also have a clear presence in the streetscape after sunset."

Limited energy consumption
Although the installation looks striking, energy consumption remains limited. The LED strips consume 23 watts per metre when running at maximum power, but the actual consumption is generally lower and varies per lighting scene. That consumption is offset by the energy generated by the solar panels on the roof. The lights are also activated only at preset hours and are not on all night.

According to Vandeput, this frugal approach fits in with the broader vision around the campus. "Sustainability is a common thread throughout Building Campus 2.0," he says. "We invest in future-oriented materials and energy-efficient systems. This lighting project is also tailored to this: it is visible, but at the same time well thought-out and energy-conscious."

Part of broad campus development
The parking building was opened in late August 2024 and can accommodate 350 cars, with the possibility of expanding to 500 spaces at a later date. It is part of the wider expansion of Bouwcampus 2.0, a collaboration between POM Limburg and UHasselt.

The building should also contribute to a car-free campus environment. "We want to keep the core of the campus free for pedestrians and cyclists," says Vandeput. "By shifting parking to the edge, we create space and livability in the campus heart. The new walking routes and connections are fully in line with this."