ArkiSpot

The project originates from the consideration of: the existing conflict between the necessity for urban densification and the preference of most people to live in the suburbs in a one-family house surrounded by their own garden on the one hand and; the attempt to create an innovative building type which preserves the superb view - not only for the happy few who can afford to live in these towers, but also for their neighbours and the passers-by - on the other hand.

This ‘vertical neighbourhood’ is the result of different layers of living-platforms that combine the advantages of the city with the enjoyment of a beautiful and spatial landscape. Every resident has his own unique and detached living-unit / house with extremely large terraces, on his living platform – almost like in the suburbs. On one level you can find up to three of four houses, all of which have a spatial view of the city, the river Schelde, Linkeroever (the left bank), the docklands and the harbour.

This innovative filter structure, unlike a traditional block of flats, preserves the view for the surroundings. The architectural form relates to the harbour. The structure itself leans over the water such that the physical presence of the water is felt. The structure is very narrow at its base leaving a large space to the public area. This public domain can be easily linked to the existing tourist dockland circuit. Under the towers new parking facilities will be constructed. The lower part of the building can be occupied by offices. Because of its innovative approach, this design could crank up the neighbourhood as well as Antwerp as a whole.

Ove Arup & Partners from London, which were inolved in several famous international projects, will handle the engineering aspect of the project.

Living on a ‘higher level’.