A new sustainable residential area of 350 homes is developed on the Agfa Gevaert site in Edegem by property developer Revive. Based on the master plan by Achtergael architects, OMGEVING worked on the subdivision plan and on an ambitious and ecological landscape design. For instance, the demolition materials from the old sheds will be reused in the foundations, gabions and as plant substrate, rainwater will be buffered directly in so-called ‘rain gardens’ and measures will be taken for bats and insects.
Smart use is made of the site’s industrial history. Thus, brick walls and overhead pipelines were integrated into the design. The residential area comprises a succession of four green garden rooms, each with its own character: a natural play area, a central activity park, a rest area and a promenade. The aim here is to create a natural appearance. Perennial borders will surround the buildings and act as a buffer for rainwater. In the flowery grassland, solitary trees are the eye-catchers, interspersed with slow-growing trees and shrubs planted in the rubble borders. The first phase of the project will include 60 flats and 16 houses, designed by POLO Architects. OMGEVING is handling the design and realisation of the courtyard garden.
