Lisa De Visscher, former director of A+ Architecture in Belgium, was appointed as Brussels’s new Bouwmeester maître architecte (BMA) in November 2025. In an interview with Pieter T’Jonck that took place in March 2026, she reflects on her vision for the city of Brussels. Her vision paper sounds very straightforward: architectural quality is about projects that contribute to a better city for everyone.

Pieter T’Jonck (A+)  – Could you explain the role of the BMA within urban planning policy?
Lisa De Visscher (LDV) – The Brussels Bouwmeester maître architecte is tasked with promoting the architectural quality of all the urban projects within the Brussels-Capital Region, acting in an independent capacity. This means that I report directly to the government. My supervising secretary is Audrey Henry, State Secretary for Urban Planning (MR). Our team operates alongside and in consultation with the government agencies Perspective and Urban. Perspective develops the long-term vision for the region. They draw up the Regional Land Use Plan (PRAS-GBP) and also draft Development Master Plans (PAD-RPA). Urban is the agency that issues the planning permissions; it’s also responsible for heritage. Another key player is the Society for Urban Development (SAU-MSI). It coordinates and implements major projects. The recommendations formulated by myself and my team are not binding, but they are mandatory for projects larger than 5,000 m².