In 2003 and 2004, a+u devoted special issues did features on the architecture of Belgium (a+u 03:05 and 03:06) and the
Netherlands (a+u 04:05). Since then, significant changes have occurred in the context that makes architecture possible there. In the autumn of 2009, a+u editors visited 20 architects in Belgium and the Netherlands for a look at the current state of architecture in these two countries.
Formerly it was said in Belgium that good architecture wasbuilt mainly in suburbs. Now, due to rapid urbanization, the focus is moving toward city centers. While retaining traditional elements, current architecture employs new materials and new construction methods to create distinctive buildings.
In the Netherlands, the global recession has brought an end to the erstwhile surge in development projects. But new currents are emerging, as innovative ideas and an uncompromising pursuit of quality are applied to extensions and renovations.
The changes currently underway in Belgium and the Netherlands can be traced through the statements of identity at the top of the contributions from the architects, and through the essays by Koen Van Synghel and Egbert Koster, which explore the milieu of architecture in these two countries.
Includes projects by Xaveer de Geyter, Stéphane Beel, Wim Goes Architectuur, Office Kersten Geers David van Severen, Robbrecht en Daem Architecten, MVRDV, Karres en Brands, Zecc Architecten, René van Zuuk, Atelier Kempe Thill, OTH, Tangram. Essays by Koen van Synghel and Egbert Koster.
In 2003 and 2004, a+u devoted special issues did features on the architecture of Belgium (a+u 03:05 and 03:06) and the
Netherlands (a+u 04:05). Since then, significant changes have occurred in the context that makes architecture possible there. In the autumn of 2009, a+u editors visited 20 architects in Belgium and the Netherlands for a look at the current state of architecture in these two countries.
Formerly it was said in Belgium that good architecture wasbuilt mainly in suburbs. Now, due to rapid urbanization, the focus is moving toward city centers. While retaining traditional elements, current architecture employs new materials and new construction methods to create distinctive buildings.
In the Netherlands, the global recession has brought an end to the erstwhile surge in development projects. But new currents are emerging, as innovative ideas and an uncompromising pursuit of quality are applied to extensions and renovations.
The changes currently underway in Belgium and the Netherlands can be traced through the statements of identity at the top of the contributions from the architects, and through the essays by Koen Van Synghel and Egbert Koster, which explore the milieu of architecture in these two countries.
CONTENT:
Essay: Belgian Architecture, Koen Van Synghel
Xaveer De Geyter Architecten and Stephane Beel, Ghent University Campus Economy Building and UFO Building
Xaveer De Geyter Architecten, College of Europe University Institute of Postgraduate European Studies
sculp(IT) architecten, The Smallest House of Antwerp
Jan De Vylder Architecten, Les Ballets C de la B and LOD
Wim Goes Architectuur, Refuge
dmvA architecten, Blob
NU architectuuratelier, office/home LINQ
Eddy FranoisandCaroline De Wolf, House in the Woods
Office Kersten Geers David Van Severen, Bridge for the Handelsbeurs Concert Hall
Robbrecht en Daem Architecten, St-Felix Warehouse
Essay:Ideal Buildings vs. Built Ideas the Netherlands, Egbert Koster
MVRDV, Didden Village
Rocha Tombal Architecten, Meditation Center in Water Tower + House Bierings
Karres en Brands, De Nieuwe Ooster Columbarium
Architectenbureau Paul de Ruiter, Villa Berkel
Zecc Architecten, Water Tower of Living, Soest
Rene van Zuuk, Pavilion in Roosendaal
Atelier Kempe Thill, Theater Podium Grotekerkplein
OTH, Kraanspoor
TANGRAM, Crystal Court
Claus en Kaan Architecten, Crematorium Heimolen
