Unique gateway with strong identity

The intention? To create a site that fits perfectly with the DNA of the open green zone of the Gaverbeek valley, the Rainbow Stadium, various sports grounds and Waregem Expo.

Waregem town council wants to radically change the town's appearance in the coming years. One of the most ambitious plans that frame this endeavor is the transformation of the site near the Rainbow Stadium. "The town council wants to prepare this site for the future in a thoughtful, qualitative, sustainable and innovative way," said Michaël Vandaele of ION. "It wrote a competition procedure to make this possible. Since Waterfront was to become the new gateway to our heimat, we were extremely keen to realize this project. We decided to join hands with Steenoven and Alheembouw. From the start, we were on the same wavelength and had the same vision of what this site should become: a dynamic new urban district where different functions meet, in a high-profile architectural dress that draws all the attention to itself." 

Strong identity and recognizability

So that the site would exude a certain dynamism at all times of the day, the developers opted for a well thought-out combination of different functions. The mix between living and working is obvious, but on top of that a hotel was also included in the concept. "In terms of architecture, we chose a bold style, which was elaborated by the renowned B2Ai and Wielfaert Architects. The design of the exterior landscaping is by Atelier Arne Deruyter. All buildings have a striking and idiosyncratic volumetry, resulting in a strong identity and recognizability. And that apparently appealed to the Town of Waregem, because our proposal was declared the winner. To the satisfaction of all of us, because this gives us the opportunity to realize a development that really captures the imagination."