Housing masterplan, Wevelgem,
Belgium, 2019

Promoted by the Vlaams Bouwmeester, the competition brief invited participants to investigate the development potential of the few remaining greenfield sites owned by social housing corporation De Vlashaard in the Wevelgem area of West Flanders.

Our response explores innovative forms of densification that avoid excessive concentrations of social housing whilst retaining as much of the surrounding open landscape as possible. The development of new housing on the sites draws inspiration from the historical clusters of farm buildings in the area. Different building typologies are proposed around a communal courtyard, with clear routes to front doors, private outdoor areas and shared amenities.

Dwellings are clustered to provide communal services such as garages, workshops, guest rooms and kitchens large enough to invite the whole family, while co-housing typologies provide shared amenities and care options to suit the specific needs of residents, creating a community of neighbours.