The final projects of the Master’s students in Urban Design and Spatial Planning at the University of Antwerp focused on a neighbourhood in the north-east of Antwerp. The main task was to develop a vision for a specific project area within the neighbourhood using design-based research. One of the project areas was the Merksemdok industrial zone.

The central theme of the design studio was ‘The Healthy City’. Preliminary analysis had shown that the neighbourhood is highly susceptible to various health hazards, such as odour and noise pollution, heat, and exposure to chemical and toxic substances. Through spatial interventions, the students sought to offer a solution to these problems. The focus was on: improving social contact, promoting mental well-being, encouraging physical activity and increasing access to healthcare.