The Astridplein has been an important crossroads in the development of Antwerp for centuries. Once known as ‘Statieplein’ (Station Square), it was the gateway to the city via the railway and the central interchange between car, tram, bicycle, and train. Today, the square not only provides breathing space in a densely built and diverse neighborhood, but also offers a unique opportunity to connect its rich history with modern urban life. In our vision, the Astridplein transforms from a functional passageway into a generous city foyer: an inviting place that reflects the dynamism and vibrancy of Antwerp. This area fosters encounters, movement, and experiences, honouring the historical importance of the site.
PEDESTRIAN FOCUSED
The Astridplein will become the gateway to the city, a destination where visitors and residents enter and leave Antwerp on foot, by bike or via public transport. Anyone transferring between modes of transportation will eventually become a pedestrian, and the square plays a crucial role as a connecting point. Therefore, the pedestrian will be the main focus in the design of the new square. This creates a balanced relationship between the local function for the surrounding neighborhoods and the broader significance within the city region.
A WATER-BASED SURFACE
The Astridplein must become an inviting location where people enjoy staying, regardless of the intensity of use. By combining greenery with water elements, new possibilities arise for a dynamic surface that contributes to the international allure of the historic station building, the zoo, and the Queen Elisabeth Hall.
One monumental water feature that connects the entire square. A flexible water level organizes the area as a multifunctional space. We will utilise rainwater, purifying it through helophyte filters and rain gardens. These gardens serve as planting beds that nod to the historical French garden that once occupied this site. A natural stone band encircles these beds, rising to bench level to create spacious seating..
- Full water feature: In the evening and at night, the water table will be completely filled, giving it a serene appearance and concentrating circulation in the surrounding walkways. This increases social control and gives the central square a naturally enclosed character.
- Paths: During peak times, in the morning and evening, the water level will be lowered, so that diagonal paths dry up. These offer a quick and practical passage to the station.
- Compartmentalization: In summer or during events, the water level can be further lowered into separate compartments. This reduces water usage and creates specific spaces for relaxation or events.
- Open square: For large events, such as the annual Ferris wheel, the water table can be completely drained. A special setup area is provided to the north of the central stairs for this purpose.
Water buffering during heavy rain will be cleverly combined with a cooling water element for warm days, making water a visible and tangible part of the city throughout the year. Around the square, a frame of trees creates shaded seating areas and a natural layout of the space. This green structure seamlessly connects to the Keyserlei and Flamingoplein, creating a harmonious whole. Together with the water feature, the Astridplein will become one of Antwerp’s leading public spaces, where water plays a central role.
ABIDE ABOVE, INFRASTRUCTURE BELOW
The Astridplein will be a lively location to stay and transfer. We make a clear choice: the surface will be designed as a pleasant space for movement and relaxation, while the underground layers will be efficiently used for infrastructure. These will be clear and organized, with spacious, well-marked routes that always lead upwards. This way, travelers can easily orient themselves with the natural daylight. We consolidate the public transport hubs under the well-known names of the metro stations Astrid and Diamant, and the square will serve as the central link between the various destinations. The renewed Astridplein will become a vibrant, multifunctional space that connects travel and staying together.
Location: Antwerp, Belgium
Client: City of Atnwerp
Team: Felixx Landscape Architects & Planners, PosadMaxwan, MINT, Atelier Ruimtelijk Advies, ABT, Benthem Crouwel Architects, Common Ground, De Groote – De Man
Renders: ©Plomp;
Diagrams: ©FelixxPosad: