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Client(s)PMV
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Construction siteAntwerp
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Project architectDirk Engelen
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Architect teamFrederic Maurel, Stephane Van Eester
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Partner(s)Studio Roma, CLUSTER
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Main contractorWillemen Construct
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Competition2016
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StatusCompetition
This elaborated all-inclusive project is the interpretation of a high level of architectural and landscape ambition and is the result of months of fascinating and intense study work. The choice of the selected programme and the spatial starting points, together with the professional team, guarantee the creation of added value for an important urban development at this unique location on the quays of the Scheldt.
With great respect for the above-ground and underground heritage, an entire building has been created that is clearly linked with respect for the historical and valuable lines of sight towards the Scheldt. The optimal accessibility of the site and the all-round character of all the buildings avoid the creation of rear façades. The maximum interaction between the buildings and the public space guarantees a continuous and high quality area where it is pleasant to walk and spend time.
The correct programming of both the historical and the new buildings will result in maximum social added value. The public character of an important part of the interpretation strengthens the identity and ‘magnet’ function of the site. Its uniqueness guarantees the diversity of its appeal to young and old, visitors and residents alike.
Both the construction of the outdoor space and the interpretation and architectural translation of the buildings have strived for an optimal relationship with the water. The water barrier has been intelligently integrated in a readable yet discreet manner. The underground car park, which has been reduced in terms of capacity to an economically viable contour with optimal respect for the archaeologically valuable areas, is deliberately linked to the new building volumes but also to the Pilotage building. These connections guarantee maximum functional access via the subsurface so that motorised traffic at ground level can be reduced to the strict minimum, which is a natural starting point to permanently guarantee the quality of the whole.
