Dry docks, Antwerp (B).
The port becomes an urban experience.
Since the construction of the first dock in 1861, the Antwerp Dry Docks Site has been a place that is constantly changing. But at the same time, the site has always had a very strong character that has remained very recognisable.
Where the dry docks used to be in the middle of the port, things are different now. The border between city and port is slowly moving further and further north. The industrial area around the warehouses is currently being transformed into an urban park, while the Kattendijk dock is increasingly surrounded by new housing. In addition, the use of the site is also changing: the industrial site is making way for an experience site with an industrial character.
The aim of this project is to maximally preserve and maintain the character of the site and the buildings, and to highlight the inherent qualities even better with a few targeted interventions. In addition, the relationship with the city will be strengthened without losing the character of the site.
The actors change, but the stage remains largely the same.
By strengthening the relationship with the new adjacent park, the entire island is strengthened as an idiosyncratic place between port and city. Docks 8, 9 and 10 are surrounded by new greenery. This could create a more recreational spot here, for example by transforming one of the docks into a swimming pool.
The valuable existing warehouses are preserved as much as possible, just like the character of these warehouses. With a few targeted interventions, these are made suitable for broad future use. In warehouse AWN-1, the inner street will be more opened, so that it will work as a central public street. The old workshops will be addressed on this street and will be used as much as possible for a wide range of uses. On the basis of two concentrated interventions, all necessary facilities are added and all necessary spaces are made accessible. New offices are being provided in a new volume above the workshops, so that they have all the necessary comfort and views, and can be maximally spared from all other spaces.
For the kids there will be space in AWN-2's smaller warehouse, but also an extra space between docks 6 and 8. This 'basecamp' is an adventurous base that can be used widely. Also in combination with the event dock. These sites are connected to each other with bridges that are placed over the heads of the docks. The demolition of the propeller shed, a later addition to AWN-2, clears the side wall of the historic pump house, making it an iconic element of the city. In addition, this will restore the historic crossing between docks 1 and 2.
One major addition is being made to the site: the Harbour Experience Center (HBC). This will be given a prominent place on the urban water square, formed by dock 1. The HBC's volume recalls the original volumes at this location. The design recalls the industrial character of the site in a contemporary way.
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