Between 2023 and 2025 we are undertaking large-scale restoration works to restore this heritage site to its former glory and to welcome our visitors even better in the coming years. Here you will find an overview of the planned works and additional information.
What are we restoring?
Between 2023 and 2025 several urgent restoration works on the protected monument and gardens will be carried out in phases.
The 18th-century grape greenhouse forms the largest part of this – for us – enormous restoration campaign. In addition to stabilising the cellars, the entire wooden and window framework will be restored and replaced where necessary. The floors will be laid again and the staircases restored so that accessibility can once again be guaranteed. As the final touch, the original exterior paintwork of the greenhouse – once designed as an exotic “Turkish tent” – will be reconstructed and the façade repainted with red and blue stripes as in the 18th century, allowing this impressive building to once again be admired in all its glory.
Major works are also being carried out in the residence itself. In recent years, three of the most important rooms in Huis Beaucarne became completely inaccessible due to rotten main beams that, after years of water infiltration, had become more sponge than wood. As a result, only a limited number of visitors have been able to access the upper floors during guided tours, important collections have not been visible, and the most beautiful salons have been supported by structural props to prevent collapse. The first major step is to restore stability by replacing three enormous main beams; these works already started in May. Afterwards, the ceilings and walls will be repaired, the woodwork examined, and the shutters, windows and front façade restored to prevent further water infiltration.
In the garden, among other works, the arcade arch and the pond will be restored and research will be carried out on the historic trees.
To welcome our visitors even better in the coming years, we are also improving the accessibility of Huis Beaucarne. This includes installing an external lift for visitors with reduced mobility, creating adapted sanitary facilities, and making smaller adjustments such as widening garden paths.
The archive of Huis Beaucarne – where documents relating to the Abbey of Ename, the village, the family history and collected documents dating back to the 11th century are preserved – is currently not accessible for consultation. Over the coming years, a suitable archive space will be created on site to guarantee proper conservation conditions and to allow consultation and scientific research.
