studio Cape Town-Brussels

global perspectives         edition 2O23     projects for Cape Town - projects for Brussels          all editions          

        Parallel design studio Hasselt University (BE) – Cape Peninsula University of Technology (SA)

All over the world, people live, work and play in houses, streets, neighbourhoods, villages, and cities ... but what exactly makes their place a home? Is it the dimensions of the houses? The degree of privacy that a house provides, or the interactions amongst neighbours in the street? Is it the layout of the street, or the language of the architecture? Perhaps it is the grocery shop around the corner, or the scent of spring blossoms in the nearby park? Is it the presence of a sports or social club, or walking / cycling to work each morning?

Surely an important part of feeling at home in a place is in the way in which people interact with each other and their environment – that feeling of sharing a place, and the social cohesion that this fosters. This interaction allows us to bond with a place and its people, helping each other (‘kanala’) to feel at home and to make a neighbourhood (‘buurt maken’) together, and in doing so becoming the best version of ourselves.

In this studio we tackle the challenge of place-making, exploring two locations on opposite sides of the world: District Six in Cape Town and Canal North-East in Brussels, using research-by-design, sharing experience, knowledge and visions.

Six projects for the Canal NE area by the CPUTstudents are presented below as a cross-section of the fine results for Brussels of this collaborative design studio.  On the previous page, you can find three projects for Cape Town's District Six by the UH students.

Maritime Museum

Udo Lotter & Willem Maritz
Canal NE industry meets community needs
This project includes new boat slipways for easy canal access, showcasing the shipping history and local culture through canal tours. A maritime college and conference area engage the community and attract visitors. Workshop and art spaces empower local artists, while marine workshops provide jobs and education, connecting with the maritime heritage of Brussels.
Keywords: maritime museum, industry, community
2023 maritime museum.pptx
more about Maritime Museum
In The Brussels canal is a place with an interesting history and a prominent fixture in the Brussels Urban Scape. Originally the site was a park & Boulevard for the aristocratic class but was turned into canal in the 19th Century to serve the city’s industrial growth. The effect of this was a division of the city through the hard edge created by the canal. Since the Canal mainly serves industrial purposes, the community was also cut off from its use in terms of recreation/ public space, and visually through high walls creating barriers to the industrial zoning next to the canal. Industrial activity and job creation due to the canal have declined, rendering the canal a place to be reimagined to provide more economic & social activity for the Brussels community as was originally the purpose.Presently the city of Brussels is the capital of Europe & all-around tourist destination, attracting many international visitors. At any stage, there are more visitors than Belgians in Brussels . With this population specifics in mind, this city is a place that requires many social spaces as it needs to serve as this connecting space for an international community. Utilizing the canal in a better way could therefore solve the requirements for Brussels as a vibrant international city & create a socio-economic catalyst for the existing infrastructure. 
Through architectural and urban intervention our project aims to respond in the following ways. 
  • Connecting the local community to the canal through mixed use Development. 
  • Creating more job opportunities in different sectors to get different parts of the community to the canal other than canal industry workers. 
  • Organizing the industrial edge and current sites, to be more sensitive to the local community & to create engagement space with the local community. 
  • Creating more green social space as breakaway from the hard industrial landscapes & spaces in the site vicinity. 
  • Attracting tourists from other parts of the city such as plazas & connecting walkable streets. 
  • Spark Urban development & renewal along the canal. 
  • Creating a space where tourists could experience local culture. 
  • Creating social space to protect from the elements/weather. 
  • Creating a space that marries Industrialism , Art and Design

Udo and Willem's project enriches the canal environment by making use of the potential of waterborne transport to introduce a number of relevant and engaging functions into the area. In addition to making the canal accessible to local residents via canal tours, the building also adds visual interest to the industrial context along the canal.

BUURTMARKT

Francois De Waal & Tiana Van Veijeren
Communal market for the Brussels' ilot and its inhabitants
The project envisions a central meeting, business, and shopping hub for local residents, with pedestrian pathways and improved streetscapes, blending modern elements while reusing existing buildings.
Keywords: access to ilot, community-driven design, communal market
2023 buurtmarkt.pptx
more about Buurtmarkt
The llot is a mixing pot of cultures and people living past each other instead of living together in a community. The llot has a need for a place in which congregate and cultures are promoted and exhibited. The llot is mostly home to low-income families who don't rely on vehicular transport thus easy access and services in close proximity is a necessity for many. The proposal is for a central point in which the locals can meet, conduct business and shop in a safe space. The proposal is also aimed at creating easier access routes to the interior space of the llot which will link up with other routes to create access through the llot promoting pedestrian transport over vehicular transport. The proposal will also aim to improve the streetscapes around the llot by updating the facades an adding modern elements. The proposal will become a focal point of the streetscape without brandishing standing out amongst the current context and thus existing buildings will be reused and repurposed. The proposal will be driven by the community and designed for the people to enrich the lives of the residents and providing a safe space in which to congregate. 

The presentation communicates Tiana and Francois's design intent very well. Their urban integration of the street facade and the massing into interior of the ilot is appropriate and sensitive. It is envisioned that the proposed functions can create a dynamic connection between the street and the ilot.

THE GREEN HUB

Sarah Kalivanda & Saarah Mkansi
Improve the lifestyle to create a sense of belonging
Incorporating local context, this project enhances Zennepark by connecting it to surroundings, preserving its tranquility, introducing safety features, repurposing structures for workshops and gardens, enriching community life through vibrant spaces
Keywords: productive landscape, tranquility, workshops
2023 green hub.pptx
more about The Green Hub
In the heart of the Canal North-East neighborhood lies Zennepark, a hidden gem waiting to reclaim its role as a vibrant hub for community engagement and cultural celebration. Our project aims to breathe new life into this park, crafting a responsive design that not only enhances the local lifestyle but also pays homage to the diverse tapestry of cultures that define the neighborhood. By forging a safe haven where connections are forged and a sense of belonging flourishes, we envision a transformed Zennepark that uplifts the overall quality of life for its residents. While Zennepark has graced the area since 2016, it yearns for revitalization, an infusion of improvements and modifications that will reignite its bond with the neighborhood, fostering a spirit of unity and growth.
Guided by a deep understanding of the local context, our project will consider Zennepark’s architectural elements while addressing the existing disconnection between the park and its surroundings. Our objective is to preserve the park’s serene atmosphere while introducing features that facilitate social control and create a safe environment.The revitalization plan encompasses transforming the aging industrial buildings into versatile spaces that offer an escape from the park’s linear layout. These repurposed structures will offer captivating prospects for a wood workshop and an urban garden dedicated to horticulture. These exciting opportunities infuse the area with a fresh cultural vibrancy, further enriching the overall landscape and providing unique spaces for creative craftsmanship and greenery to flourish. By integrating these elements, the project aims to foster a dynamic environment that nurtures artistic expression, sustainable practices, and an enhanced sense of community.The successful execution of this revitalization project will give rise to an inclusive and dynamic Zennepark, honoring the cultural diversity of the Canal North-East neighborhood. It will foster community engagement, inspire social interaction, and ultimately enhance the overall lifestyle and sense of community belonging for all residents. Together, let us breathe new life into Zennepark, creating a thriving hub that celebrates our shared heritage and propels us towards a brighter future.

The two Sarah's developed an interesting project that linked the Zennepark with the Antwerpse Steenweg. In doing so, they activated both these routes, and introduced new activities that add value to the community. In particular, the horticultural component adds productive value to the green landscape of the Zennepark.

BLOOM WHERE YOU ARE PLANTED

Alfino Seth
An infectious flourishing despite your circumstances
Inspired by the phrase 'bloom where you are planted,' the design revitalises the existing structure, which includes an operational garage, to transform and meet occupants' needs, uniting heritage and modern demands harmoniously.
Keywords: motor vehicles, adaptive reuse, transformation
2023 bloom where you are planted.pptx
more about Bloom where you are planted
The architectural design proposed draws inspiration from the concept of 'bloom where you are planted.'  It's all about making the best of what we already have instead of starting from scratch. Rather than succumbing to the urge to demolish and rebuild, it embraces the existing architecture as a foundation for transformation. The design aims to unlock the full potential of the structure by repurposing its elements and giving them a fresh new life. It's a beautiful blend of honoring the past and embracing the present, creating a space that respects its heritage while meeting the changing demands of its occupants. It's about thriving in the space we've been given and making it truly blossom. Positively affecting your surroundings creating a catalytic process for change.

The project takes an existing function on the site as its pint of departure, and arranges a range of appropriate functions around that so as to establsh a connection with the interior of the ilot. Opening the basement of the existing building so that visitors in the new coffee shop can see the activity below reinforces the link between the old and the new.

URBAN EDGE

Jaime Scholz
Igniting passion, connecting communities
The project transforms the raised plinth between the residentail slabs by establishing workshops, arts/crafts studios, a cafe, brewery, bakery, eateries, and library, so as to foster integration, quality of life, and community development.
Keywords: revitalisation, community integration, inclusive spaces
2023 urban edge.pptx
more about Urban Edge
This project aims to revitalize the site in northeast Brussels by creating a sustainable and socially inclusive space that addresses the needs of the local community and the increasing number of refugees. When considering the site's historical context and the unsuccessful Manhattanplan, the project seeks to counteract the lasting effects of failed urban planning by implementing architectural interventions and innovative solutions. The proposed interventions include the creation of green spaces, the incorporation of innovative technology, and the development of public areas that encourage social interaction. By addressing social issues such as disconnection, lack of employment opportunities, and the site's negative perception, the project aims to transform the site into a vibrant and inviting destination. The architectural interventions will celebrate the site's heritage while fostering community integration and providing valuable resources for refugees. Through the establishment of workshops, arts/craftsstudios, a cafe, brewery, bakery, eateries, and a library, the project will create employment opportunities, promote cultural exchange, and mprove the overall quality of life for both residents and refugees. The project's vision is to create a space that not only meets the immediate needs of refugees but also fosters long-term integration and community development.

Jaime's project places an emphasis on sustainability, inclusivity, and social integration. The incorporation of green spaces, innovative technology, and diverse public areas, along with employment opportunities and cultural exchange, showcases a holistic approach to transforming the site for the better.

RECLAIM

Gabriella Grieve
Rejuvenated landfill transformed as a nurturing space for human well-being and environmental restoration

The design for a recycling centre and fitness hub reconnects the city and the canal, enhancing community well-being with recreational spaces, inclusive courtyards, and cultural art installations that foster a greener future through collaboration.
Keywords: nurtering space, human well-being, environmental restoration
2023 reclaim.pptx
more about Reclaim
Picture a once chaotic landfill, infused with vitality and purposethrough a process of rejuvenation. This transformed site hasemerged as a dynamic fitness hub and recycling facility, serving asa nurturing space for human well-being and environmentalrestoration.The fitness hub encompasses indoor and outdoor fitnessactivities, captivating a vibrant atmosphere The indoor activitiesinclude a swimming pool, with its crystal-clear waters, positionedalong the canal edge to create a sense of submergence, a gymcatering diverse fitness preferences. a professional boxing ring, acenter of empowerment and discipline, to serve as a focal pointfor individuals seeking high-intensity training and thedevelopment of mental and physical resilience. While the outdoor activities include a meandering jogging pathway through the site and a youthful skate park.A modern recycling facility stands as a testament to the commitment to environmental stewardship. What makes this. rejuvenated landfill truly unique is its seamless connection to thepartially untouched landfill. Rather than erasing the remnants ofthe past, this space serves as a poignant reminder of the journeytoward environmental restoration.The integration of the fitness hub and the recycling facility withinthe context of the rejuvenated landfill creates a powerful synergy.Individuals pursuing their fitness goals within this space are not only prioritizing their own well-being but also actively participating in the restoration of the environment. The connection between physical fitness and environmental consciousness becomes intertwined, fostering a sense of purpose and a deep appreciation for the interplay between personal health and ecological balance.

Gabriella's project complements the industrial activities in the canal area by adding a recycling centre. This new function is complemented by a fitness hub. Together, the programme celebrates environmental and personal health, and adds accessible recreation space for the community living by the canal.

team
studio coordinators Cape Peninsula University of Technology (SA)dr.  Rudolf Perold, arch. Jacobus Naude
studio coordinators Hasselt University: arch. Ludo Schouterden, arch. Peggy Winkels,
coordinator internationalisation Hasselt University:dr. Els Hannes

later edition