The challenge was to integrate the necessary traffic lines circling the square, a tram junction roofed with glass, the underground entrances and other technical infrastructure in a way, that the main function of the square as an area mainly for pedestrians, for the residents‘ play and rest would have absolute priority. The consistency of the surface made of blue granite, the traditional Belgian construction material which covers the whole area until the facades, enlarges the place‘s dimensions and gives it a generous spatial impression.
Illumination and artistic interventions as well as specially developed furniture framing the inner area enhance the quality of stay and leave enough space for special uses like markets or cultural events.
Client: Ministère de la Région de Bruxelles Capitale, MRBC-AED-Dir des Voiries
Project team: Latz + Partner, D+A International (Brussels), Pfarré Lighting Design (Munich)
Struct.engineering architectures: Greisch Liège
Constr. management: Bagon-BGroupe Brussels
Project lead: Christine Rupp-Stoppel, Daniela Reif
Total area: ca. 24.000 m²
Planning and realization: 2005-2008
Pictures: © Bernard Capelle
