Connected by floats
Because the water network of the Dijle covers the entire historic city center, Mechelen and water are inextricably linked. The narrow waters along which streets were laid and houses built, are called streams. These rivers are old river arms and tributaries that have been narrowed by silting. For health reasons and odor are the flow at the beginning of the 20 e all vaulted or muted century. As a result, the size ratio of the street is no longer present. It is no longer clear why the profile is so wide or why a large part of the buildings with their rear faces the street. In short; the logic of the place is no longer present.
Size and scale
OKRA reduced the relationship between size and scale by reconstructing the flow. The asymmetrical location of the original flow creates a special spatial distribution. By means of a difference in height, a distinction is made between the through road and the residential area on the water.
Newly decorated Melaan
The historic course of the water now determines the atmosphere. There is room for accommodation and the old quay walls have been reused as the edge of the Vliet. The newly decorated Melaan has a clear layout that invites you to stay and relax.
Client: City of Mechelen
Surface: 2.5 ha
Year: 2006
Completed
Collaboration: Atelier Spatial Advice
Price: 2008, European Landscape award Rosa Barba nomination
2004, winner from competition
photos: Ben ter Mull
Tags: Waterfront Belgium Culture and Heritage Outdoor Space Realized Green-blue network Award
Location：Mechelen, Belgium
