Bekaert site
Collective housing
The former Bekaert industrial site in Hemiksem is being transformed into a vibrant residential landscape along the River Scheldt. Surrounded by greenery, Park Aan De Stroom will act as a catalyst, breathing new life into Hemiksem’s identity as a riverside community.
Park Aan De Stroom is a locally rooted and sustainably integrated development. Drawing inspiration from the area’s industrial heritage – from clay extraction and brickmaking to steel wire production – the design also embraces the surrounding landscape, the village fabric of Hemiksem, and the site's unique riverside location.
Set against this historic backdrop, we are designing homes that speak a strong architectural language, with clarity and individuality. Each residence includes a private garden and integrated bicycle storage, along with access to a communal green courtyard that offers additional outdoor space.
By clustering parking within each building block, we allow the landscape to take precedence. The architecture remains secondary, creating a living environment where green space leads. Together with the planned redesign of the riverbanks, this approach fosters a valuable ecological link with surrounding natural areas, including the nearby Abbey Park.
Sustainability is at the heart of the project. Key strategies include:
- Smart mobility: enabling multimodal travel and prioritising pedestrian- and cycle-friendly infrastructure.
- Water management: optimising the use of rainwater and greywater reuse.
- Renewable energy: a local heating network and neighbourhood battery system.
- Biodiversity: planting native species and applying low-impact landscape maintenance.
Park Aan De Stroom is a place of connection — not only looking back, but using its historic roots to help weave Hemiksem’s future and reinforce its bond with the Scheldt.
