ICONIC MAGAZINE
# the sixth edition
Iconic in Antwerp Renovation of the KBC Boerentoren in collaboration with Fernand Huts of Katoen Natie Groep
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Finance
Cities
State of the Art
ION Residential Platform invests 280 million euros in the Belgian rental market
Burenberg, a mixture of housing forms in Leuven
Jef Neve on a year of surprises
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˼ ON THE COVER
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The Boerentoren This project is destined to be an extraordinary gift to the people of Antwerp, Flanders, and the many international visitors. ION’s dream team is more than ever ready to make this a tremendous success story.
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˼ CONTENT
ICONIC
ICONIC
# the sixth edition 0 8 ————— 2 0 2 1
6 —
Introduction
8 —
Cities
14 —
Trends
18 —
Architectural Gems
22 —
In Conversation
28 —
Finance
30 —
State of the Art
Jef Neve on a challenging but inspiring year
34 —
Speakers Corner
ION believes Wallonia holds a great future
38 —
Sustainability
40 —
Technology
42 —
Under Construction
44 —
The Resident
47 —
Photo section HaZee
Leuven The potential of undeveloped spaces Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen + Horizon House
Davy Demuynck and Fernand Huts
ION Residential Platform
Energy-efficient living and working in Veurne
Shayp detects water leaks
Sustainable working in HaZee
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18
22
28
30
34
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˼ INTRODUC TION
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ICONIC
ION keeps innovating The ION Residential Platform is the showpiece of 2021. This joint-venture challenge bodes well for a successful future for the Belgian rental market.
From left to right: Paul Thiers (Chairman and Co-founder), Davy Demuynck (CEO and Co-founder), and Kristof Vanfleteren (CEO and Co-founder).
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— A bumper year for ION
employees, which requires more office space.
Our lives have been ruled by the corona
In addition, we are crossing the Flemish
pandemic for over a year now. Still, we kept
border and are setting up in Wallonia as well!
up our team spirits because, after all, fun is
Pierre Gielen, 100th employee and Business
in our DNA. We kept looking to the future and
Manager for Wallonia, tells us more.
were able to secure some exciting projects. Our own successes allowed us to give the In terms of business, ION actually had a
cultural sector a boost by supporting “The
bumper year. Without a doubt, one of our
Spring Sessions.” For this online series of
greatest successes is the renovation of
concerts, Jef Neve invites a Belgian guest for
Antwerp’s iconic Boerentoren (“Farmer’s
each concert and puts on a fantastic music
Tower”). We are embracing this challenge
show. You can read in an interview in this
together with Katoen Natie Groep and will
magazine what the Flemish composer thinks
be converting the former KBC building into a
about culture post corona.
unique culture tower. We are revealing some of the details in an interview with Fernand
— Looking towards the future
Huts now, but we will certainly come back to
Just like Jef Neve, we are very much looking
this later in the year.
forward to a future where more will be possible, even if it no longer seems that far
Of course, the Boerentoren is not our only
away. We trust this magazine will inspire and
project. Other projects include Burenberg in
motivate you to keep going!
Leuven, HaZee in Ostend, and Suikerpark in Veurne, three great examples of putting sustainability
first
through
innovative
techniques and smart designs. With these
Davy Demuynck and Kristof Vanfleteren
projects, we demonstrate that the environment
CEOs and Co-founders
is at least as important as the architecture. Paul Thiers — Innovation, growth, and commitment We have also been very active in terms of innovation. ION Residential Platform is the first institutional housing platform in Belgium to make long-term investments in the residential rental market. We sensed that the time had come to introduce this type of entrepreneurship in Belgium. We are fully committed to this joint venture together with Bouwinvest Real Estate Investors, and CBRE Global Investment Partners. It is clear that our ambitions are continuing to grow. Consequently, we are taking on more
Chairman and Co-founder
'We are always looking to the future.
˼ CITIES
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ICONIC
The oldest university city Leuven is known as Belgium’s main university city. This is for good reason, since the university will be celebrating its 600th birthday in 2025.
Compact and Cosmopolitan Leuven, a blend of people and culture
Burenberg: Sustainability is key ION’s Burenberg project is a new mixture of housing forms and an oasis of tranquility within walking distance of the center of Leuven. The objective is to develop a zero-energy residential area using a heat distribution grid, smart water management, and solar panels. The Brothers of Charity’s monastery is being renovated, with its historic chapel and park gardens forming the heart of Burenberg. Sample the atmosphere at www.burenberg.be
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Lies Corneillie became an Alderwoman in Leuven in 2019. She focuses on finding creative solutions to encourage urban living.
'In Leuven, we want everyone to come into their own. — Lies Corneillie, Alderwoman for Housing, Equal Opportunity and Global Policy of the City of Leuven
“Leuven is both compact and
exceptional: “People have been living together
cosmopolitan,” says Lies Corneillie.
for generations. This can occasionally cause
“Although everything is small, close-by,
tensions, but we like to turn this into some-
and pleasant, the city has a lot to offer,
thing positive. Volunteering, for example.
including a world-class university and
Interns and young people become involved
several large companies. The people of
in community centers, retirement homes, or
Leuven also bring their own wealth of
their own neighborhoods. We listen to the
ideas, activities, and perspectives.”
residents and try to find solutions together if there are any problems.”
— Sustainable living for both young and old Leuven is a trendsetter when it comes to
— Creative initiatives
sustainable city living. In 2019, the city coun-
Promoting encounters between different
cil issued a new governance approach and
generations is not a matter of course. The
recently gave the go-ahead to a new develop-
“stand up for your community” initiatives are
ment in the city center: Burenberg, a sustain-
a response to this. “These initiatives allow res-
able housing development near the city center.
idents to organize something for their neighborhood. This can take many different forms,
The diverse clientele that will be residing here
from green socializing spots to book exchange
is remarkable. Indeed, the housing develop-
boxes,” says Alderwoman Lies Corneillie. “We
ment has a lot to offer, including single-family
trigger spontaneous interactions just by let-
homes, student rooms, apartments, co-living
ting people take the initiative.”
rooms, a residential facility, and assisted-living apartments. Corneillie says this is not
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˼ CITIES
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Historical heritage Without a doubt, Leuven’s historic town hall is its most iconic landmark. Another must-see on this list is the beguinage.
Kristien Hansebout Kristien was born and raised in West Flanders but fell in love with Leuven’s charms in her student days. “Leuven immediately won my heart during my student days, which is why I bought a house there in 1986. Although it’s a small and pleasant town, it has so much to offer. Whichever direction you take, you can be in the countryside within ten minutes. When we built these homes, we found it essential to have plenty of sunlight coming into our living space. That’s why our living quarters are on the top floor and the sleeping quarters on the ground floor. In that way, we always have a holiday atmosphere in our own homes.”
ICONIC
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Axel Buyse Originally a Kortrijk native, Axel stuck around in Leuven after he completed his studies. He is currently living in the oldest house in town. “Ever since my twenties, I have been enamored by Leuven’s historic city center, its friendly restaurants and cafes, and the river Dyle meandering through. And its international character is one of the main reasons why I’m still living here. Therefore, we feel privileged to be living in Leuven’s oldest house, which is a listed building. In 2005, my wife and I renovated our house into a home full of character and history, following all the rules of Heritage Architecture.”
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˼ CITIES
ICONIC
Genade De Lille Genade was born 85 years ago in Maldegem and is now a proud citizen of Leuven. “Living in Leuven is like heaven on earth to me. When I walk out my door, I can immediately enjoy the green spaces around the river Dyle and the historical setting of St. Peter’s Church. I bought my home from an Antwerp lawyer. He told me, 'If you want to buy the houses, you will have to buy all five of them.' I worked with the architect Bruno Erdico to convert three of the five hovels into my cozy home, and that at the age of 81!”
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Gosse Gosse is the owner of the Bereklauw community and has been living in Leuven since 1965. “Back in 1965, I arrived at my student lodgings in Leuven, fully packed and ready to go. In 1972, having had a taste of city life for a few years, I moved to the Bereklauw community. More than anything, we were tired of the city bustle and wanted to become self-sufficient in terms of living and gardening. We have had many international young people making pit stops at our ‘eco-village’ home. Our community lets you rediscover your own talents and get back to the ‘basics of living.’ Everyone is welcome to come and stay here, so long as you have a passion for sustainable living and like rolling up your sleeves.”
˼ TRENDS
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ICONIC
The best of both worlds in Herent The town’s ease of access and bustle in combination with nature’s tranquility and greenery. These are the strengths of Houtkant, a collaborative project between ION and OMGEVING.
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The potential of undeveloped spaces In the contemporary townscape, we see new-build apartments and houses surrounded by green areas with consideration for ecology. The objective is to create a place where people can enjoy nature right in the middle of town. Peter Swyngedauw and Tompy Hoedelmans of the design agency OMGEVING have noticed a promising trend: “Undeveloped spaces are gaining more interest, which brings only advantages.”
Real estate developers increasingly see public spaces as essential parts of their designs. This contrasts sharply with fifteen years ago when they just planted a few trees here and there once their designs had been more or less completed. Today, undeveloped green spaces are considered almost equally important and are central from the project’s outset. “The fact that green public spaces are receiving more attention is a positive trend,” says Peter Swyngedauw, Spatial Planner at OMGEVING. “It enhances residential quality, adds balance to the environment, and creates attractive residential neighborhoods. It’s another example of where we see economics and ecology going hand in hand. Ecological parks are much more low-maintenance than manicured lawns. It’s a win-win situation for the towns and town councils. There are lower development and
˼ TRENDS
16
ICONIC
Positive trend Public spaces used to be seen as a burden or a residual space to be filled. Today’s real estate developers see the added value and how it boosts residential quality.
Designs from landscape to stone The design agency OMGEVING works on projects for urban development, land parceling, and public spaces from a landscape perspective. The undeveloped space is always their starting point so that it can play a central role in the living environment. In recent years, they noticed a growing interest from real estate developers and cities to look at public spaces in an eco-friendlier way. Their objective is to turn living environments into places where nature, innovation, and quality of life come together.
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maintenance costs and more opportunities
risk of flooding. The water can drain away
between the private gardens and the public
for biodiversity and climate adaptation.”
naturally.”
spaces. It’s a safe place for children to play
Although the social factor is undoubtedly a
Excess water is no longer considered a prob-
significant advantage, this type of design
lem, but an added value. Today’s integrated
is also necessitated by climate change.
water infiltration systems can easily stand
Tompy Hoedelmans, Landscape Architect at
dry during dry periods but can collect rainwa-
OMGEVING, explains: “By arranging public
ter during wet periods. The residents use the
spaces intelligently, we can start unpaving
collected water for various purposes, such as
larger areas or keep them unpaved. In doing
for taps on the rooftop gardens or for water-
so, we allow the sun’s heat to be absorbed
ing shared vegetable gardens.
and for residents to meet,” concludes Peter. •
rather than reflected. Trees provide shade for people to sit in or to effectively shade
Undeveloped spaces serve as a gift to bio-
homes to keep out the heat. These large
diversity and offer great advantages for
unpaved areas are also useful during heavy
children, also because people are increas-
rainstorms. By letting the soil absorb all the
ingly going for underground parking spaces.
water, we avoid overflowing sewers and the
“Without all the cars, there’s less of a divide
A beautiful example of comfortable living in a green setting will be the historic Panquin site.
˼ ARCHITECTUR AL GEMS
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ICONIC
Shaping the future At the height of 40 meters, the mirrored building holds the potential to become one of Rotterdam’s new icons and attract 100,000 visitors a year.
DEPOT
Boijmans Van Beuningen Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen will open its doors in Rotterdam later this year. For the first time ever, an entire art collection will be opened to the public. Designed by Dutch architect Winy Maas, the depot’s dynamics are entirely different from the 1935 museum of the same name. While there are no temporary exhibitions, you can explore 151,000 art objects and observe the restoration of works of art.
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© MVRDV
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˼ ARCHITECTUR AL GEMS
ICONIC
A hybrid relationship between the earth and its inhabitants Obscuring the building from most viewpoints and maintaining the site’s individuality helped create a balance between nature and residents.
HORIZON HOUSE
Horizon House, set in the hinterland of Girona, Spain, was designed by RCR Arquitectes in 2003. This configuration is buried in a large embankment that divides the site. This established a unique relationship between residents and land. Its solid glass panels afford an almost entirely uninterrupted view. On the interior, its limited range of materials continues and repeats the qualities of the exterior.
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© Pep Sau
˼ I N C O N V E R S AT I O N
22
ICONIC
Antwerp icon redrawn The Boerentoren’s renovation is unique. This project covering 56,000 m² will have an entirely new function, but its look and feel will remain the same.
The sky-high ambitions of Fernand Huts and Davy Demuynck FROM FINANCIAL SKYSCRAPER TO INNOVATIVE CULTURE TOWER
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Urban fabric The culture tower’s central location makes it inseparable from the urban fabric. Along with the cathedral, the Boerentoren dominates Antwerp’s skyline. The “Via Sinjoor” will also be constructed during the works on the tower. This new car-free pedestrian mall between Central Station and the Scheldt will branch around the tower.
˼ I N C O N V E R S AT I O N
24
ICONIC
The Phoebus Foundation This is the name given to the foundation in which Fernand Huts and Katoen Natie are placing their art collection. Besides its own exhibitions, The Phoebus Foundation is highly active as a partner of museums worldwide.
Bringing Fernand Huts and Davy Demuynck
we’re made of the same mold: no-nonsense
together generates great chemistry. Both
and innovative. I can only admire the things
businessmen share the same well-defined
he’s accomplishing internationally.”
views, are bursting with ambition, and like to think outside the box. Their joint project
While Fernand Huts may be a man of the
to revive the Boerentoren is a considerable
world, he is a purebred Antwerp native raised
challenge. But that’s precisely what
in Seefhoek. This Flemish art expert also
stimulates them to make history with the
owns an extensive art collection through
culture tower.
The Phoebus Foundation and has organized numerous high-profile exhibitions in
“Fernand, I have an idea.” It would be an under-
recent years. One brainstorming session was
statement to say that the phone call from
enough. The Boerentoren will be a culture
Davy Demuynck, ION’s CEO, to Antwerp’s top
tower. Katoen Natie will acquire the building,
entrepreneur Fernand Huts was an inspired
and ION will renovate the iconic skyscraper
move. “For ION to win the KBC tender, we had
from start to finish.
to be creative and innovative.” “The more culture a city can offer, the — No-nonsense and innovative
more appeal it will have,” says Huts. “The
For the Boerentoren’s renovation, Davy
Boerentoren
Demuynck immediately thought of a part-
value. It symbolizes the financial and eco-
nership with Katoen Natie. “My own career
nomic emancipation of Flanders. We want
started with Fernand Huts, and I know that
to convert the tower into an artistic and
has
tremendous
heritage
'Our ambition with The Phoebus Foundation is to join the world’s top names, such as Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza in Madrid. — Fernand Huts
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Huts Tower? Will there be a Huts Tower soon? “Definitely not,” laughs Huts. “The only appropriate name for such an iconic building is the Boerentoren. And that name is engrained in the minds of all Antwerp citizens. And anyway, it was the farmers who paid for that tower in the 1930s.”
˼ I N C O N V E R S AT I O N
26
A sustainable story Sustainable project development is part of ION’s DNA. Also, Katoen Natie has well-defined views on green energy. “When it comes to sustainability, the Boerentoren will be an exceptionally fascinating test case, for example, for thermal sewage energy. We definitely aspire to make it a sustainable and ecological story. At the same time, we have to keep in mind the existing situation. This is not a greenfield. We are still in the surveying stages, but we are definitely going to build something future-proof and sustainable.”
ICONIC
27
Via Sinjoor Via Sinjoor is a new car-free pedestrian mall between Central Station and the river Scheldt and will draw all Antwerp citizens and visitors to the Boerentoren.
social reference point for both Antwerp and
will be made passable. This allows passersby
Natie is an international company established
Flanders. The Boerentoren 2.0 will become a
to stroll through, linger, and be stimulated to
in forty countries. We also have ambitions
culture tower that everyone can be proud of.”
take a look inside.”
with The Phoebus Foundation to join the world’s top names, such as Museo Thyssen-
— Philanthropy
— Future-proof
Bornemisza in Madrid. It’s quite a challenge,
After being vacant for some time, the monu-
ION has become one of the top five players in
but that’s what stimulates us to build a mon-
ment will be given a new lease on life. It will
Belgium in a very short time. This extraordi-
ument that is entirely future-proof.”
have exhibition areas, movie theaters, an art
nary project will place the West Flemish real
depot, a restoration studio, and a sculpture
estate developer even more prominently on
garden. The first and second floors will fea-
the map. “This project is the largest yet that
ture retail spaces as well as offices, apart-
we will develop in a single phase. It will put
ments, and hospitality venues. There will
us to the test in every way possible. But I am
be two panoramic rooms with spectacular
confident that we are ready for this. In fact,
views of Antwerp. “This is a tale of philan-
we will have a dedicated team working full
thropy unseen in Europe,” adds Davy. “Nearly
time on this project.”
all buildings of such dimensions have closed doors. We endeavor to open the tower to the
Are you tempted to go international? It is
public as much as possible. We want to return
only natural that the tower will also become
the Boerentoren to the people as a source of
a familiar concept internationally, says Huts.
experience. So, the bottom of the building
“In terms of industrial economics, Katoen
The Boerentoren was completed in 1931. At the time, it was 87.5 meters high and Belgium’s first skyscraper and Europe’s tallest tower building.
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˼ FINANCE
28
ICONIC
Pioneer in Belgium IRP is Belgium’s first institutional investment platform, which confirms ION’s innovative character.
ION Residential Platform The future of Belgium’s rental market Most residential real estate today is in the
“ION Residential Platform’s (IRP) objective
than investors who own entire buildings.
hands of private individuals. In that regard,
is to make long-term investments in the res-
This means that, as institutional investors,
we differ from other European countries,
idential rental market,” says Sam Bordon,
we can truly make a contribution.”
where large corporate operators rent out
Investment Director at ION. “This is driven
thousands of properties professionally. ION
mainly by rising real estate prices on the one
Sam believes that other initiatives are sure
firmly believes the time has come to bring
hand, which means that fewer and fewer
to follow; in fact, there are already entre-
this trend to Belgium. In collaboration with
people can buy a property. The other factor
preneurs with similar plans. “We believe
international institutional asset managers
is the increasing interest from real estate
these are positive signs. It just means
Bouwinvest Real Estate Investors and
developers in selling an entire building to a
we’re not alone in spotting these trends. It
CBRE Global Investment Partners, ION is
single final investor at one time.”
will also allow the market to improve more
investing 280 million euros in new-build
quickly. There is such a tremendous need for
homes and apartments exclusively for the
Line Verroken of CBRE says the step toward
high-quality, affordable rental housing that
rental market.
professionalization is a smart move: “We
there is certainly room for multiple players
have seen in other countries that this
to meet that demand.”
creates functional communal areas and enhances the quality of living. Residential property management is being taken to a new level. Issues such as broken heating boilers are more easily solved. So, it’s also advantageous for tenants.” As well as the practical side, sustainability also plays a prominent role in this story. “It’s one of the platform’s key objectives,” says Jasper Petit of Bouwinvest. “Building sustainably now and creating cities where people can enjoy pleasant and affordable living is beneficial for long-term returns. What’s more, private individuals have fewer opportunities to invest in sustainable solutions
•
29
New opportunities These days, around 72% of Belgians are homeowners. However, it appears from a recent study that professionals within the industry are expecting home ownership to fall to 65% by 2030. These are tens of thousands of Belgians who will be renting homes rather than owning their own. The number of homeowners is already below 55% in major cities such as Brussels, Antwerp, Charleroi, Ghent, Liege, and Leuven. There is a downward trend, especially in new-builds - also around the major cities. This will create opportunities for both real estate developers and investors.
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˼ S TAT E O F T H E A R T
ICONIC
Reinventing culture after COVID-19 Jef Neve believes that live-streamed concerts will be here to stay and that there will be more opportunities for cross-border collaborations in the future.
Jef Neve on a challenging but inspiring year
31
The country went into lockdown in March last
— You started doing live music streams
year. Nobody could have predicted at that
from day one; how do you reflect on those
time what this would mean for the cultural
early beginnings?
sector. While we were all standing in line at
“I am incredibly pleased that I made that
supermarket checkouts, Jef Neve decided
decision, even though it was quite impulsive.
to treat his followers to some online mini-
There was almost a sense of euphoria during
concerts. All he needed was a smartphone
that first lockdown. We felt a kind of excite-
and a piano. This was the start of a year full
ment that something was happening that
of surprises, new insights, and a very cool
we had never experienced before. I suddenly
concept in the form of a series of online
sensed that there was room to offer some-
concerts.
thing in return to my audience for a change. Everybody was at home, and I thought, well, why not?” — It eventually turned into the ‘Spring Live Sessions.’ Did this idea just come to you all of a sudden? “No, it grew organically. Having gone live on Facebook and Instagram every day for two months, we switched to a paid platform. I performed these shows from my studio in Sint-Martens-Latem with a small team, but
˼ S TAT E O F T H E A R T
32
ICONIC
150 concert programs That’s just how many programs the pianist rehearsed in the past year. Typically, there would be 5 per year.
eventually, we wanted to do it more profes-
— Do you expect there to be any
sionally. We expanded the team and took the
noticeable changes in the cultural world?
visuals and sound to the next level. For me,
“Yes, I think live streaming will become
the icing on the cake was the ‘Spring Sessions’
increasingly common. Virtual festivals such
that we eventually produced, thanks in part to
as Tomorrowland have also received a major
ION’s support. We worked hard to get every-
push, and the stage has been set for cross-bor-
thing in place. It may sound crazy in a time of a
der collaborations. They are all things that I
pandemic, but I have met so many new people
wasn’t concerned with before the pandemic,
in the past year. Not only talented artists but
and now I am. I am looking forward to seeing
also the audience, the listeners. It has been
where we will be, and I hope that some of the
a remarkable year for everyone, and every
changes will be permanent.”
now and then, the stories come out during those concerts. That does create a sense of
— Finally, what is your view of the future?
connection.”
“I’m a positive person! When I compare the situation with last year, I feel that we’ve
— Has that connection with the audience
already come a long way in terms of health
always been significant to you?
care. I just hope that the politicians and the
“Yes, you can say that. I am always keen to
cultural sector will take enough initiative to
be at the CD stand after a concert for signing
deal with it. Also, I think that as a society,
sessions or to meet people. In fact, my listen-
we have learned something from the crisis. I
ers are my sounding board, and I value their
learned to appreciate things much more; sud-
opinions. Some of the stories we heard went
denly, you recognize the value of small things.
straight to my heart. With the contact being
Such as how nice it is to be able to decide how
digital, a lot of people opened their hearts by
many people you invite to your birthday party
writing it all down. They also really took their
or organize a barbecue when the weather is
time for it. Usually, this kind of thing doesn’t
good. We all reflected on that last year, and I
happen because signing sessions tend to be
think that’s very positive.”
very casual. People sent me emails telling me about what they felt at the concert or what is happening in their lives. There were a lot of lonely people who were really looking forward to our concerts. One woman told me that our concerts had given her the courage to carry on. She told me that she had been at a very low point and had almost given up. That kind of thing really hits home. It made me realize that our concerts are also comforting. More than ever, I have felt that connecting with my audience is essential, in both directions.”
•
33
'It may sound crazy in a time of a pandemic, but I have met a lot of new people in the past year.
˼ SPEAKERS CORNER
34
ICONIC
100th employee On signing his contract as a Business Unit Manager for Wallonia, Pierre Gielen became ION’s 100th permanent employee. An excellent milestone in the growth of our team.
ION believes that Wallonia holds a great future
35
'City councils have neither the time nor the resources required for their development.
CEO Kristof Vanfleteren and Pierre Gielen
— You took a new step in the group’s
meet at the confluence of the Sambre
expansion with the Namur business unit.
and Meuse rivers. Pierre only just started
What made you decide to expand your
as a Business Unit Manager on the ION
business into Wallonia?
team barely three days ago. And that was
Kristof: There’s a whole market waiting to
after a 23-year career at Eckelmans. The
be developed in Wallonia. Whereas the local
CEO and his new recruit taking a look at
players are primarily involved in the residen-
the future from the Citadel that towers
tial sector, ION also has experience in very
over Namur. At least it seems certain that
different areas, such as service flats, logis-
there are plenty of opportunities waiting
tics, and social housing.
for them. — What are your plans for ION activities there? Kristof: We firmly believe in having a solid local base. All regions have their own specific characteristics, which makes each development different. This is why it is vital to find someone locally with good references and an extensive network while also having a strong sense of ION’s DNA. That person turned out to be Pierre.
˼ SPEAKERS CORNER
36
ICONIC
350,000 additional housing units That is how many units are estimated to be needed in Wallonia by 2050. Real estate developers like ION can play key roles in this.
Pierre: For me, based in Namur, it’s a great
Pierre: There are also business parks that are
comfort that I can rely on the back-office in
continuing to expand. So, we are up against
Waregem. They have a great deal of exper-
quite some challenges, both in the residen-
tise there. It would be a shame not to take
tial and economic real estate markets. What
advantage of that.
first attracted me to ION was the ability to develop and revive entire neighborhoods
— ION presents itself as an innovative
with a diversity of functions. These may be
and carbon-neutral real estate developer.
service flats, residential neighborhoods, or
Does the Walloon market suit your
public buildings.
objectives in terms of urban planning, architecture, and sustainability?
When I look at how Paul Magnette and his
Pierre: The Government of Wallonia wants
team want to revive Charleroi with their
to create some 350,000 additional housing
strategic vision of urban development, I am
units by 2040 to accommodate demographic
confident that there are plenty of opportuni-
growth. That’s more than 10,000 a year. And
ties for us to fulfill their political ambitions.
this is without even mentioning the concrete ban that also exists here or the planned renovations to the energy-efficiency of existing buildings Therefore, our objectives are entirely consistent with Wallonia’s intentions. — What are the biggest challenges in Wallonia? Kristof: First of all, we want to offer affordable and high-quality housing. To do this, we are reaching out to the local authorities and other partners. We hope to be able to invest in this type of rental housing with a formula such as ION Residential Platform (cf. page 28). Infrastructure is another significant challenge. The city councils in Flanders have realized that they have neither the time nor the resources for developing real estate on their own. That explains the increasing number of Public-Private Partnerships. I believe that we can be partners with local authorities in that respect as well.
•
37
'All regions have their own specific characteristics.
38
˼ S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y
ICONIC
'The heat distribution grid allows us to supply Suikerpark with entirely carbonneutral heating.
39
This is unique in Flanders In contrast to other heat distribution grids in Flanders, the heating for Suikerpark will not be generated in a central natural gas-fired furnace but will be fed by residual heat from the nearby PepsiCo oven.
Suikerpark Veurne where the residual heat from a potato chips oven keeps the neighborhood warm The homes and apartments in Veurne’s
— New life
heating will be entirely carbon-neutral, and
new neighborhood Suikerpark will soon
Sixteen years after the closure of its sugar
the plant’s carbon emissions will be drasti-
all be heated thanks to a giant heat
factory, Stad Veurne, WVI, and ION are
cally reduced once the heat distribution grid
distribution grid. The heat will come from
joining forces to revive the site. Thanks to
link is operational.
the residual heat of the potato chips
European and Flemish subsidies and the
oven of the nearby PepsiCo plant, which
collaboration with Fluvius and Noven, they
— Towards a sustainable future
is unique in Belgium. Fluvius is already
built a heat distribution grid to ensure that
Suikerpark is only the beginning because the
operating many heat distribution grids in
the housing units will not require their own
objective is to use the heat distribution grid
Flanders, but this will be the first one to
individual heating systems. The waste heat
to heat several neighborhoods in Veurne.
connect to industrial residual heat.
from the PepsiCo plant will be recovered and
And that’s not all. Solar panels on the
distributed through an underground piping
Suikertoren will provide renewable energy,
network.
and the water from the bathrooms will also be treated and reused. This means that res-
— Climate-neutral by 2050
idents will never need to worry about main-
This is a tremendous move in the right
taining gas boilers, and they will also be get-
direction because Europe wants all mem-
ting affordable and fair green energy right at
ber states to be climate-neutral by 2050. To
the same time.
achieve that objective, we will need to make maximum use of renewable heat. This heat distribution grid can be an example for many future projects because the neighborhood’s
•
˼ TECHNOLOGY
40
ICONIC
Supported by AMAVI Shayp is one of AMAVI’s investments, an independent investment fund that seeks to connect the traditional real estate sector with pioneering PropTech companies.
Shayp detects water leaks in real-time Some 35 percent of Flanders’ drinking
The Belgian start-up has developed a tiny
— Ambitious mission
water is wasted due to water leaks in
device that can automatically monitor a
The founders’ objective is to drastically
buildings and infrastructure. Shayp’s
building’s daily water consumption. This
reduce water wastage in Flanders. By
founders agree that this is an astonishing
device easily attaches to the water meter and
2022, they want to save as many as 100
figure. They developed a technology for
runs on its own battery without the need for
billion gallons a year with their water mon-
real-time leak detection. Their objective is
Wi-Fi or electricity. When it detects a water
itors. That may seem like a lot, but when
to reduce worldwide water consumption by
leak, it immediately sends an alert by text
you know that one in seven buildings in
30 percent.
message. This means that a lot less water
Flanders has one or more water leakages,
and money will be wasted.
you can soon appreciate the problem’s scale. Then there’s also the rising price of
— Pulse system
water. A leaking toilet can cost upwards of
Since 2000, all water meters have been fit-
7,000 euros per year.
ted with pulse systems, which are rotating meters. This allows Shayp to detect leaks,
Shayp has already come a long way since its
as one rotation is equivalent to a one-liter
start-up in October 2017. Initially, the focus
consumption. With every rotation of the
will be on public buildings and major projects,
meter, Shayp measures the corresponding
but in the future, they want to target the pri-
consumption. If there any irregularities, it
vate market as well. To help achieve its future
usually means that there is a leak.
plans, Shayp can rely on the enthusiastic support of multiple investors, including AMAVI,
You can see all the info the device collects in
the PropTech investment fund that ION also
Shayp’s user-friendly app. Besides warnings
co-founded.
of possible leaks, consumers will also gain more insight into their water consumption.
•
41
From left to right: Alexandre McCormack, Zineddine Wakrim, and Grégoire de Hemptinne.
Award-winning technology In January 2020, Shayp earned the Solar Impulse Efficient Solution Label for its innovative technology. Shayp’s approach is both costeffective and environmentally friendly. This is an end-to-end solution from identifying to detecting water leaks.
˼ UNDER CONSTRUC TION
42
ICONIC
A new skyline in Waregem Welcome to Waterfront, where living, working, visiting, and recreation all come together. The two residential towers, Ascot and Windsor, make up the heart of this prestigious overall project.
UNDER CON STRUC TION
43
˼ THE RESIDENT
44
ICONIC
HaZee, a powerful collaboration The new-build project at Ostend station is a collaboration between architectural firms A1AR and ARQ architecten.
Sustainable working in HaZee When A1AR architects & more signed
— What context did you use to
for the HaZee project in Ostend’s station
design HaZee?
neighborhood, it was love at first sight.
Jozef: “HAZee has a unique location. Over
So much so that they decided to move in
the years, the City of Ostend has strongly
themselves. “We have never regretted
focused on inner-city development, and its
that decision for a moment,” says Founder
current focus is on a new sustainable train
and Architect Jozef Hessel. “Since our
station neighborhood. Something like this is
move, just about everyone comes by
not always easy. Helping to shape a station
public transportation or bike.”
neighborhood is an extraordinary assignment for us. This is sometimes complicated by the diversity of functions in the project. We see this more as a challenge rather than a problem. For instance, we decided to incorporate part of the street into the design.” — Why did you move with A1AR? Jozef: “We almost immediately reached an unspoken decision to take up residence in HaZee. Our former offices were in an industrial area in Ostend, which was much harder to reach by public transport. “HaZee is near
45
'We view problems as challenges. How can we get a mixture of different aspects to work together perfectly? — Jozef Hessel, Architect and Founder of A1AR
In 2015, Jozef Hessel founded the architectural firm A1AR together with Kenneth Sleuyter, Jozef graduated from LUCA School of Arts in 2008 with a Master’s in Architecture and Urban Design.
˼ THE RESIDENT
46
ICONIC
HaZee, a powerful collaboration The new-build project at Ostend station is a collaboration between architectural firms A1AR and ARQ architecten.
For Managing Director Kenneth Sleuyter, every challenge is an excellent start to a fascinating process. HaZee is a perfect example of this.
the train station, and since our move, just
— Just what is your definition of
about everyone arrives by public transporta-
architecture, and how is this reflected in
tion or bike. By moving the office to the city
this project?
center, the connection with our second office
Jozef: “We see architecture as the interpre-
in Ghent has also improved. Other than the
tation of a sustainable society. Our designs
location, the project’s vision is also key. With
require a 24/7 connection with the environ-
A1AR, we want to play the card of quality and
ment. HaZee is an example of that It is not
sustainability, but in our former building, we
a given that people can walk or bike across
didn’t get the right gut feeling.”
a private site. That added experience makes the site one of the city’s many welcoming
— Does HaZee have any other advantages
places. That way, you can create a project
for you as an agency?
that will help to shape urban planning even
Jozef: “We wanted to tap into a sustainable
further.”
environment where our employees feel good too. We know from experience that entirely focusing on work is difficult these days because we are constantly multitasking. With our new office, we want to make a commitment to a powerful team. At A1AR, we work according to the people-planet-profit principle. The initial intention was to invest in our own people, then in the planet. Once that is done, profit becomes a matter of course. Apart from choosing to create a better workplace for our own employees, we also want to make our mark and help to shape the station neighborhood’s development.”
•
SPOT LIGHT
HaZee offers views of the queen of seaside towns LIVING, WORKING, AND STUDYING IN OSTEND
48
˼ HAZEE
'HaZee is a beautiful and exclusive new-build project located between the railway station and Maria Hendrikapark in Ostend. The building brings a fresh breath of air to the edge of the historic Hazegras neighborhood and is home to residents, students, and the A1AR architectural firm.
ICONIC
49
IN NUMBERS MIXED URBAN DEVELOPMENT SURFACE AREA 3.350 M 2` 48 STUDENT ROOMS 18 APARTMENTS 1 OFFICE AREA INVESTMENT VALUE 13.5 MILLION EUROS ARCHITECTS A1AR ARQ ARCHITECTEN
˼ HAZEE
50
Waking up “with a view” Thanks to the apartments’ magnificent windows, you can wake up every day with phenomenal views of Ostend.
ICONIC
51
'We see architecture as the interpretation of a sustainable society. Our designs require a 24/7 connection with the environment. — Jozef Hessel, Architect and Founder of A1AR
52
˼ HAZEE
ICONIC
53
Sense the sea Relax on your private terrace with a glass balustrade and enjoy the sea breezes and the rolling sound of the sea that is within walking distance.
HaZee’s beautifully designed areas are made with classy materials.
54
˼ HAZEE
ICONIC
55
Living in the very heart of Ostend, the perfect location for young and old.
˼ HAZEE
56
ICONIC
Varied clientele This mixture of 48 student rooms, 18 apartments, and an office area is intended to create a 24/7 experience that strongly enhances social cohesion.
'ION’s three pillars of innovation, sustainability, and architecture are reflected beautifully in this project. — Matthieu Pacco, Business Unit Manager, West Flanders North
The building is clad in quality natural stone with soft colors that blend in well with the surroundings.
57
˼ HAZEE
58
ICONIC
Ostend revives This project is situated in an area that is undergoing rapid expansion, with a firm commitment to the quality of the public domain.
It is a public site, which enhances the experience. It’s one of the city’s welcoming places for people to walk and cycle.
59
'The project’s objective is to connect the station with Maria Hendrikapark.
˼ HAZEE
60
Sky-high architecture The 100-meter tower will change Ostend’s skyline forever.
The site is bordered by the VIVES University of Applied Sciences and the railway station and provides the opportunity to participate in developing a new district.
ICONIC
61
Iconic, the sixth edition august 2021
CONTACT info@ion.be www.ion.be
EDITING AND DESIGN d-artagnan
ION Vredestraat 53 8790 Waregem, Belgium
This magazine is a publication of ION Vredestraat 53, 8790 Waregem, Belgium V.U. Davy Demuynck
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