“Het Hemelrijck” (early 16th century) can be counted among one of the first transition buildings in Flanders in between the late Gothic style and the Italian influences of the renaissance. Although the facades underwent significant alterations in the early 1900’s, Het Hemelrijck clearly reminiscents the sixteenth century. 

In August 2012, the restoration of the facades began. The brickwork was very dirty and damaged and the sandstones were strongly weathered. As it was already visible throughout several cracks, it appeared that the stability of the entire historical roof construction could no longer be ensured. ARTER, in a consortium with Lode De Clercq, supervised the entire restoration, from the preliminary technical and stratigraphical studies until the final works. Art historical research conducted trouhgout the ongoing works revealed that the statue at the corner of the building, appeared to be the original 16th century decoration. This valuable discovery has been integrated into the restoration campaign.