Langerei residential project Bruges

Langerei, a ‘Secret Garden’ in the heart of Bruges

Along Langerei in the centre of Bruges, there is a hidden green inner area. I was asked by the project developer to work out an urban development concept in which the green inner area could be used as much as possible. The concept was worked out according to the principle of the ‘commons’, whereby the central and communal ‘green’ can strengthen the residents’ sense of community and mutual involvement.

This design vision demonstrates that significant residential expansion in the city is possible provided the inner green area is preserved. In this concept, the treeless, inaccessible weed-covered green space acquires much greater value by allowing people to experience and use it as a central park. The stream can be diverted and widened slightly. Bank plants can grow there luxuriantly. Native trees such as oak, lime and fruit trees enhance the atmosphere.

There are two carports at the entrance to the residential area. Only strictly necessary traffic is allowed. The two housing blocks are connected by a wall with integrated sitting walls that border the park and at the same time create small private front gardens according to the principle of beguinages. This concept thus follows the DNA of Bruges’ inner city. Optimal anchoring of urban planning and architecture in form and material is essential in such a historic inner city.