Wapper, the iconic, elongated square centrally located on the Meir, in the centre of Antwerp, is getting an overhaul. The new design envisages a long, shallow water element referring to the underground Rui, which collects and filters rainwater. The current ornamental fountain will be replaced by a ground-level play fountain with several spouts.
The square will have a clear division thanks to a central stay area and active edges, where cyclists and pedestrians can move around. Those edges are wide enough for smooth passage, but also for the fire brigade and for loading and unloading movements. Existing terraces will be given a place among the greenery and by the water, together with comfortable seating areas and benches. Additional planting areas will provide depavement of the square and infiltration of rainwater, and existing trees will be preserved as much as possible. In addition, new trees will provide shade and coolness. They will be given sufficient underground growth space so that they are more resistant to drought and heat, and so that they can grow big and old.
The historical value of the Wapper and the underground Rui will be preserved. The underground structure of the Rui will remain intact and the square remains open at the level of the Rubens House to allow a nice view of the restored façade.
