In West Flanders, the municipality of Wevelgem is committed to revitalising its town centres. One of these, Gullegem, situated at the junction of three main roads and in the immediate vicinity of Kortrijk, is indeed seeking to establish itself. The joint venture comprising architects Dierendonckblancke, VELDHUIS and landscape architects OKRA has won first prize in the Open Oproep competition to reimagine Gullegem. Through the creation of a new community centre and a strong focus on the development of the banks of the adjacent Heulebeek stream, the project aims to be resilient.

The former municipality, which became a district of Wevelgem in 1977, is heavily characterised by industrial zoning. This situation stems from its past rooted in the flax industry during the 1930s. This call for proposals is a godsend for Gullegem, offering it the opportunity to forge an identity more in tune with contemporary concerns.

To engage with the scale of the village, two distinct volumes are juxtaposed to house the community centre. Striking a balance with the church, the building is set back whilst maintaining an unobstructed view of the Heulebeek. Constructed mainly of red brick, the new façade draws inspiration from the surrounding built environment and its materials.

The community centre helps to bring the square to life. Designed to host a variety of events, it is naturally flexible. Its extension outwards via a long canopy creates a link between the two volumes and bridges the gap between indoors and outdoors. Passers-by walk through this sheltered space, stop and meet. The square thus becomes accessible to everyone, young and old alike. It is the new weekly market square, capable of hosting local festivities as well as spontaneous gatherings. Soft mobility is promoted through the STOP principle, where priority is given to pedestrians thanks to an expansion of footpaths and cycle lanes.

A regional feature is the presence of the Heulebeek stream. Its banks require careful consideration as the stream regularly overflows its banks and floods the surrounding villages. Thanks to the winning proposal, the stream receives the attention it deserves. Its course is extended to the centre of Gullegem near the church. Its banks are redesigned to allow people to approach the water and find a place to rest, whilst retaining their natural character. The focus is on biodiversity, with the creation of a corridor linking Bergelen Provincial Park, the Green Ribbon and the town centre. This will provide a habitat conducive to flora and fauna whilst improving rainwater management.

What is proposed is a genuine landscape regeneration of the village centre, achieved through the development of the Heulebeek riverbanks, the creation of a new, vibrant central square and the construction of a new building dedicated to its residents. By extending a natural feature, we are rebuilding social connections whilst addressing climate constraints. The project demonstrates a genuine consideration of the scale of the intervention. Beyond its social aims, it meets climate requirements, promotes soft mobility and creates an inclusive public space, the sort of which we would like to see more of.