Commissioned by the Brussels-based property developer Citydev, Bogdan & Van Broeck and DDS+ designed NovaCity I in Anderlecht. Using a system of vertical mixed-use development, they transformed a piece of wasteland into a vibrant neighbourhood. Homes and production workshops coexist harmoniously, one above the other. But is the reality really so cheerful behind the bright green façade panels?
Armed with the renderings – the developer’s visual promises – director Jonathan Ortegat visits the pioneering project. For the documentary ‘Living and Working in NovaCity I’, he organises a meeting between the residents and the users of the production workshops. They are asked to compare the images with their own experiences. The gathering is also an opportunity to address any tensions and look ahead to the future of the neighbourhood, which will soon be expanded with NovaCity II.
The architects speak of a constellation of communal spaces that offer opportunities for meeting, interaction and conviviality. A clear statement of intent, as social housing is usually designed with security and privacy in mind. A good neighbour is better than a distant friend, but what if your downstairs neighbour is a noisy joiner or a kombucha brewer with a peculiar smell?
Film Screening Living and Working in NovaCity 1
Language French, with English subtitles
Where LOCI Faculty of Architecture – Rue Henri Wafelaerts 47/51, 1060 Saint-Gilles
When 11 June 2026, 6:30 pm
Info and tickets uclouvain.be
