Sharing the masterplan for social housing with local residents in Antoine Van Hoorebekehof, Ghent

The masterplan for social housing in Antoine Van Hoorebekehof in Ghent is currently being developed to establish a family-oriented neighbourhood surrounding a safe and easeful green meeting space. 

Before finalizing, we presented the plans to the local residents, listening to their feedback and ideas. When it comes to social housing development, people are often reluctant to change, however the neighbours appreciated the connection with the existing tissue, the implantation of the highest buildings along the cemetery park, and the generous new green area that will be offered.

The masterplan forsees 83 new social dwellings, consisting of a variety of apartments, duplex-apartments and row houses with gardens. At its centre 3,000 m² of public green park opens up. A place to pass through, to stay, to meet, to play. Trees and water bring shade and cooling, while homes face onto this shared green space, bringing activity, visibility and a sense of care. Building heights shift in relation to their surroundings: lower volumes align with neighbouring homes, while taller elements are placed towards the cemetery edge.

The site becomes largely car-free. Walking and cycling paths run across it, creating new shortcuts and connections to the wider area. Parking is present, but kept to the edges.

This development by Thuispunt Gent is in collaboration with POLO.platform, Stad Gent, and Wonen in Vlaanderen.

More information can be found here (NL): Project Antoine van Hoorebekehof | Thuispunt Gent