Parvis St. Antoine

Refurbishment of two squares in Forest, Brussels

The Municipality of Vorst asked what could be done with Sint Antoine Square, which had become an anonymous parking area. Our response was to turn the square back into a place for the neighbourhood.

In our study, we also looked at the neighbouring Orban Square and the connection between these squares and nearby schools.

Cooperation was paramount to win over its users. From the project’s beginning, children, senior citizens, shopkeepers, and other residents took part in the design and implementation process. They wanted limited traffic and a play-, bicycle-, and pedestrian-friendly environment with room for greenery. Together, we tested ideas for the design through the placement of temporary objects.

The effect. The local community felt encouraged to make their own space. The result looks like a neighbourhood square that has naturally evolved over time. The unassuming paving elements, street furniture, and greenery gently articulate the areas within the square. Everyone is welcome. The project was implemented with a very limited budget.

Location: Forest, Brussels, Belgium
Client: Municipality Forest
Partner: Urban Platform
Years: 2010 – 2014