The redevelopment of the Standaert site presented an excellent opportunity to create a space in the densely built-up neighbourhood of Ledeberg that serves the residents. Murmuur architects, Carton123architects, AE architects, in collaboration with landscape studio Arne Deruyter and engineering firm H110, have impressed with their winning design: the neighbourhood blossoms into a green, open space.

The Standaert site no longer hides behind the terraced houses on Hoveniersstraat and Hilarius Bertolfstraat, but presents itself prominently on both sides. Enticed by Marc Nagtzaam’s art installations and lush greenery, you step into a new horizon where social interaction flourishes. The densely built-up tangle that remained is now revealed as a walk-through outdoor space that allows the neighbourhood to breathe again. Right from the earliest design sketches, you can sense how greenery acts as a unifying factor from street to street. Climbing plants and berry bushes, grapevines and clusters of trees invite passers-by to linger in a succession of resting spots they can make their own. A courtyard of vegetable gardens and a south-facing terrace form the beating heart of the park. The stepping stones, sandpit and wadi provide the necessary play elements that allow the space to flourish for even the youngest visitors.