Kortrijk Centrum

In the heart of Kortrijk lies Belgium’s first pedestrian shopping centre, a testament to the city’s ambitions. However, in the urban evolution flux and under the influence of climate change, we find ourselves questioning these spaces. The project of Centrum Kortrijk emerges as one of resilience and playfulness.

Guided by a masterplan, we have identified five key locations as focal points for an adaptation of the streetscape. These areas will be transformed into unpaved spaces, enhanced with greenery, and elements that foster encounter and play, where shopping meets slowing down and becomes slow shopping.

This project’s vision became clear through numerous meetings and workshops involving diverse stakeholders. Notably, two open-air temporary installations provided platforms for experimentation and engagement. On Grote Kring, a half-circular temporary structure included a 12m long table and benches, red fabric swings, and evening lights, and the irrigation system for a mobile forest, creating shade and coolness. A play box accompanied the existing terraces on the square. And on the Veemarkt, a linear structure with a slide and multiple strips done by Sew4Life in addition to a mobile forest. These participatory endeavours enabled us to refine our approach and gather valuable feedback from the shopkeepers and local community.

As we move forward in the project, our focus remains on creating resilient spaces that redefine Kortrijk’s identity and design interventions with the project’s overarching ambitions. Unpaved areas will offer resting zones for shoppers and passersby. By transforming the paved areas into lush green pockets equipped with seating and recreational furniture, we aim to enhance the public spaces for all, human and non-human. The Grote Kring and the Veemarkt, the two main squares of the master plan are reimagined to host small-scale events, adventurous play area for children and shaded retreats. The three other locations feature comfortable seatings, mood lighting and provide more coziness to the neighbourhood.

Additionally, iconic landmarks will punctuate the cityscape; several columns can be found standing at the Veemarkt as structuring elements, encircling the Grote Kring, and over the district accompanied by a table, a garland, or seating. From the luminous garland encircling Grote Kring’s central square to the colourful play elements and the relocation of the renowned fountain ‘De Dorstigen Laven’ in Veemarkt, these landmarks will intrigue and guide visitors through the district.

Centrum Kortrijk stands as a symbol of the power of collaboration and imagination; it redefines not only the identity of Kortrijk but also the future of a resilient shopping district. How can small yet meticulous interventions make a meaningful impact?