Introduction.

The "Modelwijk" is a landmark social housing project comprising originally 1,029 units, located in Laken, a northern district of Brussels. Designed under the leadership of renowned Belgian architect Renaat Braem, the project was conceived in the forward-looking spirit of the 1958 Brussels World Expo. It stands today as a quintessential example of post-war Modernism.

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The masterplan introduced vertical living across twelve residential towers, each elevated on pilotis and carefully embedded in a lush, 17-hectare park landscape. The architecture reflects a clear utopian vision of collective living, openness, and integration with nature — values central to the Modernist movement.

Community life is anchored by a set of centrally located shared facilities, including a library, cultural centre, sports and recreational amenities, and a supermarket. A newly built crèche completes this network, reinforcing the Modelwijk as a vibrant and inclusive living environment for all generations.

 

 

New Library and Cultural Neighbourhood Centre.

 

The new library and cultural neighbourhood centre are strategically embedded within the heart of the district. 
The former library was housed in the plinth of High-Rise Building nr.1, while the cultural centre occupies the site of the original community facility. Due to the area’s growing population and the continued success of both institutions, the need arose for a larger, more centralised space that could serve as a vibrant focal point for public life.

Drawing inspiration from the original urban vision by architect Renaat Braem, a new volume has been introduced on the central square. Unlike the surrounding orthogonal structures, this new building takes on an amorphous form — a soft, flowing geometry that contrasts with the rigidity of its context while gently embracing the public realm.

More than just a visual landmark, the new cultural building actively contributes to the social dynamics of the square. Its curved silhouette fosters informal gathering, interaction, and openness. At the same time, its shape responds to technical needs: it improves wind comfort across the public space, creating a more welcoming microclimate for year-round use.

The building will be constructed using a timber structure that complies with passive house standards, ensuring maximum energy efficiency and minimal environmental impact. This sustainable approach not only reduces the carbon footprint of the project but also reflects the community’s ambition to build responsibly for future generations.

This new library and cultural hub are not only a functional response to demographic growth, but also a symbol of community identity — a space where knowledge, culture, and encounter are given room to grow.