From the Drawing Table to Daily Life

This summer, I finally had the chance to visit Slachthuissite in Antwerp, a project I had previously only experienced through drawings, plans and design discussions during the DO phase, where translating design principles into the working of the public space was a crucial task for us. It was quite special to see how what we drew eventually came to life.

Vetten Osplein is now in use, and seeing it in action was particularly rewarding. Conceived as the living room of the neighbourhood, the square brings together terraces, play, water, sport and space for neighbourhood activities like local markets, neighbourhood parties, flea markets, and musical events tailored to the community. Play is an important feature throughout the wider public space design, with a route of different play elements woven through the neighbourhood. At Vetten Osplein, it was great to see this actually being used, with the mini basketball court and ping pong table active while children enjoyed playing around the fountain. What stood out to me was how naturally all these different uses already seem to come together.

A short walk away, Kalverwei offers something completely different, forming a greener and more relaxed heart for the neighbourhood. This variety is one of the things I appreciate about the Slachthuisbuurt. It is a neighbourhood with different public spaces, each carrying its own character, while together contributing to a larger network of public space and greenery.

Visiting the project finally was a refreshing experience that opened my eyes beyond the drawing table. We spend so much time drawing, discussing and imagining how spaces might eventually be used, and then one day those spaces become part of someone’s everyday life. It all comes full circle.