En Place

The Brussels canal zone is like a mirage: those who are looking for a relaxing place along the canal will surely be disappointed. In the middle of the busy European metropolis you do find the openness that is lacking in other places. However, this space is mainly utilitarian and almost entirely designated for the infrastructure. As a result, leeway is limited and must be found elsewhere.

En Place is a proposal for the encremental transformation of the area, with a mobile multi-functional city platform as a catalyst. This varied and stacked public spaces for play and relaxation moves across the channel. In addition to the temporary center that its presence establishes, it also facilitates developments in its surroundings. Temporary bridges make connections between the plateau to new gardens and squares. This way it shows the potential of these adjacent plots. En Place contuously changes position, to stimulate the entire zone with small impulses, rather than one central location.

Design Rick ten Doeschate, Jouri Kanters, René van Poppel, Gerjan Streng