Spatial Design Tractebel

We’re proud to share that Materialenkaai (Brussels) has just received the Jury Award of the Prijs Publieke Ruimte 2026 in the Urban Projects category, presented at the Congres Publieke Ruimte in Bruges. What makes this recognition special is exactly what happens here every day: a former industrial quay along the canal has become an open, vibrant waterfront park in one of Brussels’ densest neighbourhoods. The project’s success lives in use — both formal and informal. A generous promenade along the water links a sequence of distinct places: areas for sport and skate, quieter gardens, playful topography, and an open lawn with a wooden deck that invites spontaneous gatherings. And this moment comes with an extra sense of continuity: for the second year in a row, the Jury Award goes to a project we contributed to — following Zuidpark in 2025. Thanks again for the appreciation @infopuntpubliekeruimte and of course thanks to our clients Beliris and Leefmilieu Brussel, and to all partners and teams who helped bring Materialenkaai to life. . Client: @belirisforbrussels and @environment.brussels Design: @tractebel_company , atelier adr, Georges Descombes Co-author masterplan and renovation Ackermans building: @msa.brussels Planting: Erik De Waele Lighting: LEA Skatepark: @carve_nl Participation: Kind & Samenleving and Transittown Main Contractor: Deckx (@stadsbadergroup ) . . . #prijspubliekeruimte #publicspace #waterfront #urbanspace

Over the past year, we organised a series of PUBLIC CONVERSATIONS as part of the development of our upcoming book. The first three conversations were shared earlier — and we are now pleased to introduce the fourth and final dialogue in this series. Beneath the roof of an old warehouse in Houthalen-Helchteren — now part of the Noord-Zuid Limburg project and a welcoming stop along cycling route F74 — we explored the perspective of designing as process and projection. How do these two dimensions — one rooted in dialogue, the other in forward-looking vision — relate to each other within a project? We were pleased to welcome Filip Buyse (@maatontwerpers ), Joos Dewulf (De Werkvennootschap), Lise Hullebroeck (Stad Gent), and Liesl Vanautgaerden (Department Omgeving). Each brought their own lens, reflecting on how process and projection intersect across design practice, policy, and implementation. With this final conversation, we completed a series of four dialogues that will form the backbone of PUBLIC CONVERSATIONS: URBAN LANDSCAPES BY TRACTEBEL, currently in development and scheduled for completion by the end of 2026.

After years of research, studies and design development, we are pleased to share that works have officially started on the Luchthaventram in Brussels. The Luchthaventram will connect Brussels-North Station with Brussels Airport, creating a fast and reliable public transport link along the Leopold III Avenue. More than a tram line, the project reimagines this major access road as a green, multimodal urban boulevard. The design combines high-capacity tram infrastructure with a continuous green track bed, safe cycling routes and carefully integrated stops that function as local mobility hubs. Strategically positioned stations connect neighbourhoods, business areas and the airport, while generous planting and water-sensitive design strengthen the ecological network between the Woluweveld and Bessenveld landscapes. By merging mobility, landscape and urban design, the Luchthaventram supports a sustainable modal shift and gives the A201 a clear, recognisable identity as a European green boulevard between city and airport. . Client: De Werkvennootschap for the programme of @werkenaandering Design: @tractebel_company , @neyandpartners , @bassmets . . . #luchthaventram #werkenaandering #publictransport #modalshift #integrateddesign

During the Week Of Water, we also want to highlight Zuidpark in Antwerp — where water management becomes a driving force for climate-adaptive urban design. Designed to address today’s climate challenges while remaining future-proof and aligned with predicted rainfall patterns for 2100, Zuidpark responds to increasing rainfall intensity and flood risks. Through a combination of above- and below-ground techniques, rainwater is captured, reused, infiltrated and made visible throughout the park. Four innovative circuits support a sustainable water system: rainwater reuse from surrounding roofs, an underground irrigation system for trees, porous networks collecting runoff from public space, and a separate circuit capturing rainwater from the surrounding neighbourhood. At the Schippersdok, buffer zones further strengthen the park’s resilience. A water garden, a 7,000 m³ underground buffer and a lowered grass field temporarily store water during extreme rainfall. Rain gardens and a large water garden make water visible and experienceable for visitors, while also creating natural spaces for play and interaction. With Zuidpark, water management becomes an integral part of urban design — addressing today’s climate challenges while preparing the city for tomorrow. #weekvanhetwater #climateresilience #publicspace #antwerp #waterurbanism

As part of the Week Of Water, we take you to the construction site of the Stiemervallei in Genk — where the vision developed through the masterplan and pilot projects Tuinen van Waterschei and Valleiroute is now taking shape on the ground. In Stalenstraat, urban rainwater is captured in a rain garden and gradually discharged towards the Stiemervallei. In the valley, the disconnected rainwater feeds a new parallel stream, restoring natural dynamics and enabling wet habitats to develop. Aqueducts transport stagnant seepage water across the canalised Stiemer to the new parallel stream. At the same time, the Valleiroute connects strategic urban sites and makes the valley accessible and experienceable for the people of Genk. Along the route, several water places are being developed — small public spaces that invite people to pause, gather, and experience the valley’s water and nature up close. With the revitalisation of the Stiemervallei, the City of Genk is investing in sustainable water management, where disconnected urban rainwater is reused to rewet the valley and reduce overflow into the Stiemer over time. Thanks to all partners involved! . Client: @stadgenk Design: @tractebel_company in collaboration with Georges Descombes Partners: @limburgbe @vmmbe @natuurenbos @fluviusbe @aquafin_nv @natuurpunt and Departement Omgeving . . . #weekvanhetwater #Stiemervallei #Genk #watermanagement #naturebasedsolutions

We are proud to share that our team, consisting out of Tractebel, @51n4e and @hnslandscape , has been selected by the city of Leuven (@leuven ) in the Vlaams Bouwmeester Open Call competition for the Knoop Kessel-Lo. Our proposal connects the mobility node to the surrounding neighborhoods and regional urban landscapes, while also creating a new public space for encounter and civic life near the station. It stood out "due to a smart approach, close attention to important details, and clear choices that form the basis for the continuation of this ambitious urban project". . Project for Stad Leuven, co-financed by the European Union Drawing by @51n4e Drone picture by @leuven Pictures by Isabelle Pateer for Vlaams Bouwmeester @isabellepateer @teamvlaamsbouwmeester . . . #openoproep #knoopkessello #stationsomgeving#publicspace #sharedspace urbanspace

We are thrilled to share the news that our project Materialenkaai in Brussels has been nominated for the Prijs Publieke Ruimte 2026 in the category Urban Projects. Once an industrial quay along the canal, Materialenkaai has been transformed into a much needed open and vibrant waterfront park for one of Brussels’ densest neighbourhoods. The project reconnects residents with the canal and creates space for sports, play, relaxation and community life. This nomination feels like a meaningful appreciation of our work invested in public space projects — especially after last year’s recognition for Zuidpark. Last year, our project Zuidpark in Antwerp won both the jury prize and the public choice award. Let’s see if we can repeat that success together! Link in bio to vote! Thanks again for the nomination @infopuntpubliekeruimte . Client: @belirisforbrussels and @environment.brussels Design: @tractebel_company , Georges Descombes , atelier adr Masterplan and renovation of Ackermans: @msa.brussels Engineering: Tractebel and IMDC Planting: Erik De Waele Light: LEA Skatepark: @carve_nl Main Contractor: Deckx (@stadsbadergroup ) . . . #prijspubliekeruimte #masterplan #publicspace #sharedspace #urbanspace

Last week we attented the Green Cities Europe Award 2025, where Antwerp and the Zuidpark were selected to represent Belgium. We are thrilled to announce that Antwerp won first prize. France (Parc des Ateliers) and Poland (Burza: Action Park at the Warsaw Uprising Mound) were awarded second and third place respectively. The jury praised Zuidpark for its scale, ambition and multifunctionality. By relocating parking underground, the project frees up valuable surface space for greenery and public life, while restoring the site’s historic dock structure. Zuidpark seamlessly combines heritage, ecology and social use, offering diverse atmospheres for residents of all ages. With its strong ecological value, sponge-based water management and ecosystem services, the project stands out as a forward-looking example of how cities can create high-quality green spaces while tackling climate challenges — and inspire similar transformations across Europe. A wonderful recognition for the dedication and hard work of the team over the past years. We couldn’t have done this without atelier adr, Georges Descombes and, of course, our client @ag_vespa . . . . #greencitieseuropeaward #zuidpark #antwerp #publicspace #climateadaptation

We are proud that the Strategic Water Plan for the Dender Valley has been awarded the Vlaamse Planningsprijs 2025 by @vrpvzw — a recognition of the collaborative and intensive work carried out with the Dender Coalition lead by Tractebel and IMDC. The Dender Valley is a beautiful yet vulnerable landscape. Its unique geomorphological and hydrological features have exposed the region to both flooding and drought in recent years. Pressures from urbanization and climate change make the need for a forward-looking vision even more urgent. The Strategic Water Plan aims to create a climate-resilient and adaptable valley by protecting vulnerable areas, creating space for flooding, and promoting ecological restoration. Seven key projects across the most at-risk locations, including Geraardsbergen, Ninove, and Denderleeuw–Liedekerke form the backbone of this approach. Through structural interventions, the plan not only enhances water safety but also improves quality of life for communities facing the challenges of a changing climate. A great example of how integrated spatial planning can contribute to safer, healthier, and more sustainable living environments. . Client: @vlaamsewaterweg , @oost_vlaanderen en Departement Omgeving In collaboration with: @billiebonkers_be , @atelier_romain , @vito.research , @maatontwerpers , @atelier__horizon en Bodemkundige dienst . . . #researchbydesign #vlaamseplanningsprijs #vrpvzw #ruimtevoorwater #dendervallei #spaceforwater

A concrete table beneath a pergola, surrounded by creeks, meadows, and a thriving community garden — the Tuinen van Stene in Ostend formed the inspiring setting for our third PUBLIC CONVERSATION. Here, we explored the perspective of designing through ecological, social, and cultural dimensions. The central question during this session: How can these intertwined layers coexist and help define a project’s meaning and impact? We were pleased to welcome @eli_devriendt and @kathybelpaeme (City of Ostende), @brunonotteboom (KU Leuven), Katrien Van De Sijpe (City of Genk), Sander Jacobs (INBO), and Evy Dewulf (Regionaal Landschap Houtland & Polders). Each brought a unique lens — from research to policy to practice — enriching the discussion with layered perspectives. This thoughtful exchange, will be featured in PUBLIC CONVERSATIONS: URBAN LANDSCAPES BY TRACTEBEL, our upcoming book launching in autumn 2026.

We are proud to announce the official opening of the Vaartkom in Leuven. Since January 2024, our team, together with the City of Leuven and Stadsbader Contractors, has worked to transform this area into a vibrant and sustainable urban space. The project carefully balances well-designed built elements with spaces that invite life to thrive, creating an environment where people, nature, and water coexist. Today, the Vaartkom offers lively plazas, green promenades, playful water gardens, a wooden boardwalk, and new cycling and walking paths—providing an engaging and inclusive space for residents and visitors alike. Curious what the Vaartkom in Leuven has become? Come and discover it tomorrow during the official opening, from 2 PM to 6 PM! Enjoy the beautiful waterside, acrobatics, theater, guided tours, and a lively market. . Client: @stadleuven Design: @tractebel_company , atelier adr In collaboration with: @waterland_vzw Main Contractor: @stadsbadercontractors . . . #publicspace #tractebel #spatialdesign #landschapearchitecture #citiesandterritories #spatialtransformation #publicspace #urbanspace #sustainablelivingenvironment #greenspace #spaceforwater #ruimtevoorwater #safecities #stedenbouw #landschapsarchitectuur #publiekeruimte

We are proud to announce that Materialenkaai has been nominated for the @brusselsarchitectureprize in the category Public Space! After years of hard work, the park officially opened last year. Since then, it has offered this dense and diverse neighbourhood a much-needed place to come together. From the skatepark and sports fields to the garden benches and playful topography, the design combines everyday functions with flexibility, making room for all ages and spontaneous use. More than just a meeting place, the Materialenkaai connects canal and city, and brings together residents, passers-by and visitors. Through well-considered features like a fully accessible promenade, a playful sand landscape, and rainwater buffering, the project shows how public space can enhance quality of life, social cohesion and climate resilience. A project that makes the city more livable, inspiring not only Brussels but beyond. . Client: @belirisforbrussels and @environment.brussels Design: @tractebel_company , Georges Descombes , atelier adr Engineering: Tractebel and IMDC Planting: Erik De Waele Light: LEA Skatepark: @carve_nl Main Contractor: Deckx (@stadsbadergroup ) . . . #masterplan #publicspace #sharedspace #regenaration #publicculture #brussels #brusselsarchitectureprize #tractebel #spatialdesign #urbandesign #architecture #landscapedesign #planning #shapingourworld #publicspace #greenspace #livability #collaboration #researchbydesign #urbanopportunities #ruimtelijkeplanning #architectuur #stedenbouw #landschapsarchitectuur #ontwerp #publiekeruimte