Iconic magazine EN #theeighthedition

ICONIC MAGAZINE

#the eighth edition 0 6 ————— 2 0 2 2

Chapel of sound A mysterious, bouldershaped concert hall with a futuristic look and feel.

Cities

Trends

Sustainability

Tallinn is ‘European Green Capital of 2023’

Living in the future: a matter of living differently

Urban mining as a solution to demolition waste in towns and cities

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! ON THE COVER

ICONIC

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Magical and mysterious Hidden in a mountainous valley near Chengde, a historic Chinese city, the Chapel of Sound amazes visitors with its mysterious boulder-shaped form.

© Zhu Runzi

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! CONTENT

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ICONIC

#the eighth edition 0 6 ————— 2 0 2 2

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—

Introduction

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Cities

Tallinn

14 —

Spotted by ION

16 —

Sustainability

20 —

Architectural gems

24 —

Trends

28 —

State of the Art

32 —

#actION

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Finance

36 —

Technology

38 —

Speakers Corner

42 —

Under Construction

44 —

The Resident

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Photo section Treenity

Be inspired

In search of urban building gold Chapel of Sound vs New Aspen museum

Living in the future Francis Alÿs

ION Hockey League

A heated real-estate market Finch Buildings ION spreads its wings Monteco Brussel

Treenity

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! INTRODUC TION

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ICONIC

Nothing is out of ION's league In February, ION became the title sponsor of the ION Hockey League in Belgium. This is a big move both for the project developer and the Top Hockey League. The deal runs for 3 seasons, and the chances are that it will be extended.

'In our company, our competitive DNA goes hand in hand with the importance of fun.

No better way to start this magazine than

events calendar. In addition, we have learned

Brussels. Later on this magazine, we talk to

with a nod to the ION Hockey League. In

a great deal over the past two years. We are

a Dutch project developer who explains the

February we brought great news: ION became

open to our employees combining working

advantages of this method of construction.

the new title partner of the Belgian Hockey

from home with being physically present in the

We are convinced that this sustainable trend

League! The league's ambition? To become the

office, since we have seen that this works per-

will continue. Our neighboring countries

best hockey league in the world. This is some-

fectly well, and in some cases, even increases

already have laws around this, and Belgium is

thing we can relate to very well, since we aim

productivity.

set to follow suit. Of course, we aim to be one

to profile ION ourselves as 'Best in Class.’ So you could say it's a match made in heaven!

step ahead, and will definitely be launching We are also looking forward to extending the

similar initiatives in the years to come!

success we enjoyed in Luxembourg into 2022.

In addition, we have always felt that hockey

Things are proceeding as planned, and we are

Ready to be inspired? Grab a drink, find a com-

as a sport resonates well with our brand and

more than happy to continue on this positive

fortable spot and enjoy ICONIC #8!

the values we believe in. Firstly, it is a very

path. Important decisions on international

fair sport with strong values such as respect

growth will follow at the end of this year, but

and sportsmanship. Secondly, it is a family

we will tell you more about this later.

sport with a DNA that spans generations. And

Davy Demuynck and Kristof Vanfleteren

finally, like ION, hockey is doing well and grow-

— Hot topics

ing on the national and international stage.

In addition to the issue of affordable housing,

There’s a good energy among all the major

we have been confronted with the issue of

players in the sport and we want to help pass

rising gas prices across Europe. This comes

that passion on. Further on in the magazine

as no surprise to ION: for years, we have been

you will see that a lot of people who work for

searching for alternative, green sources of

us are also passionate hockey players.

energy so we can stop using fossil fuels once and for all. This is not just about the cost price

— Looking ahead

of bricks, but also the sustainability of our

In our company, our competitive DNA goes

homes.

hand in hand with the importance of fun.

Now that the pandemic is beginning to abate,

At the moment, we are busy with the con-

there is once again room to organize some fun

struction of Monteco. We are the first project

activities to maintain the good atmosphere

developer to use a complete timber frame

within our team. We are eager to add to our

construction for a medium-sized building in

CEOs and co-founders

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From left to right: Davy Demuynck and Kristof Vanfleteren.

! CITIES

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Tallinn

EUROPEAN GREEN CAPITAL 2023

In the Estonian capital they like to set a good example. The way Tallinn's residents and municipality are dealing with the climate crisis is really inspiring. With their children and grandchildren in mind, they are trying to create the best possible living environment. The efforts they have made – and continue to make – have earned the city a beautiful title: “European Green Capital of 2023.” And it's well deserved!

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The importance of public green spaces Every year, Tallinn invests 10 million euros in its green spaces. The result? Twenty-one community gardens, 61 parks and 130 green zones, which means that 80% of the population lives less than 300 meters from a public green space.

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! CITIES

ICONIC

Building in a climate-conscious way In Paljassaare, buildings are being placed in such a way to get the most out of the annual solar cycle and shut out the cold north wind.

Consequently, all the greenery can grow optimally and the cold is kept out of the city.

Today, Tallinn is known as a modern city with

— Free public transportation

a good living environment. In recent years,

Since 2013, all of Tallinn's residents have

considerable investment has been made in

been entitled to free public transportation.

environmental, social and economic sustaina-

This has encouraged them to use their cars

bility in order to combat climate change. With

less often. It's a smart solution, given that

its new title, Tallinn follows in the footsteps

90% of the city's inhabitants live no more

of global cities such as Stockholm, Hamburg,

than 400 meters from a bus or tram stop. In

Oslo, and Lisbon. They convinced the jury with

the coming years, the municipality wants to

their ambitious plans for the future, which

invest 90 million euros in the tram lines that

they brought together in the Tallinn 2035

run from the center to the outskirts. Hybrid

development strategy. That document was

buses are also being considered, with the

drafted with the help of 6,000 people, includ-

aim of having a fully climate-neutral public

ing 800 children. Why children? Because they

transport network by 2035. Residents who

are the future of the city.

prefer to use bicycles or electric scooters have seen their city change dramatically in recent years. Twenty-four years ago, there were no bicycle paths in Tallinn, while today there are 305 kilometers of cycle paths – and that number is continuing to rise. There are even pop-up cycle paths that are being built temporarily, pending permanent solutions.

Pollinator highway Even as a hiker, you will soon have nothing to complain about in the capital.

A pollinator highway is being built through the city. This is a green strip of no less than 13 kilometers that will serve as a natural habitat for millions of insects.

The strip will run through 6 different districts in Tallinn and will be accompanied by a hiking trail, inviting residents to move around on foot. The municipality hopes to create a total of 11 pollinator highways by 2035. © Kaidi Põldoja/Tallinn Spatial Design Team of the Strategic Management Office

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'Linnahall, the old conference center, is also getting a makeover.

The renovation should be completed in 2026.

© Päär Keedus

! CITIES

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ICONIC

Collective heating and cooling Over the last 60 years, there has been a strong focus on district heating networks to reduce the use of fossil fuels. Today, two-thirds of the city is being heated and cooled in this environmentally friendly way.

— Climate-neutral residential and

and within the area, with city farms and com-

working areas

munity gardens. Additionally, they will enjoy

In addition to its efforts to drastically reduce

better air quality, and above all the conveni-

CO2 emissions and create a greener city,

ence of more sustainable living in the city.

Tallinn is also working on the regeneration of the districts of Kopli and Paljassaare. These

The adjoining neighborhood of Kopli is still

neighborhoods, located on the Baltic Sea

an industrial site, but is being transformed

in the northwest of the city, are having a

into a public space with creative hubs and a

makeover. Paljassaare was an industrial and

community center. So the circular economy is

port zone for many years, but is now being

being stimulated and the city is on track to

transformed into a climate-neutral residen-

achieve its goals by 2035.

tial and working area. Its location by the sea is particularly favorable, since it makes it

All these inspiring initiatives are to be wel-

possible to use various natural resources to

comed, and mean a city trip to Tallinn sud-

set up an energy network to supply the entire

denly seems like a great idea!

district with water and electricity. The 16,000 future residents and people working in the

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neighborhood will benefit from the various smart mobility solutions, including a public transportation system connected to the rest of the city, as well as lots of greenery around

The title “European Green Capital” recognizes the efforts of a city to achieve a climate that both improves the quality of life and supports the economy. It's awarded to a city of more than 100,000

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key environmental indicators

inhabitants that is able to act as a role model in the field of sustainable urban development and citizen communication.

01. Air quality

07. Green growth and eco-innovation

02. Noise

08. Climate change: mitigation

03. Waste and Circular Economy

09. Climate change: adaptation

04. Water

10. Sustainable urban mobility

05. Nature and biodiversity

11. Energy efficiency

06. Sustainable land and soil use

12. Environmental governance

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Fungible Non-Fungible IHEARTBLOB In addition to all its beautiful plans for the future, Tallinn is playing host to the Architecture Biennale later this year.

2022's edition focuses on the importance of the circular economy, and is therefore in perfect harmony with the city's ambitions. The architects of IHEARTBLOB won the “Installation” competition, which gave them the chance to exhibit their work on the art trail. With their installation ‘Fungible Non-Fungible’, they are letting the audience contribute to the design by allowing them to add their own piece to it online. Those who want to see the winning architectural artwork in real life should head to Tallinn between the start of September and end of October. If you want to add a piece to the design yourself, you can visit their website: www.iheartblob.com

! SPOT TED BY ION

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Spotted, checked & approved

SPOTTED

Be amazed by some of our staff’s inspirational tips. An original Instagram account, a creative design, or an inspiring trade fair?

We are happy to share five great tips with you!

— La Cattedrale Stadium of the gods! Soccer teams AC Milan and Inter Milan will soon be moving to a brand new stadium called “La Cattedrale” (The Cathedral). The architectural gem, designed by Populous, has space for around 60,000 fans.

Thanks to the vertical fins surrounding the rectangular stadium, the building appears to be floating.

© Populous

ICONIC

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— Biennale INTERIEUR In October you can spend 5 days in Kortrijk (Courtrai) at the Biennale Interieur. This edition of the international design fair will be focusing on high-quality experiences and memorable moments – a mix of business, fun and culture.

Are you planning to come check it out? interieur.be

© BIG

— Wildflower Studios Wildflower Studios in Queens, New York City, is the very first vertical film, television and creative studio in the world. The studio is run by the famous American actor Robert De Niro and was designed by the Danish Bjarke Ingels

— Extraordinary Belgian Building 7 The book Buitengewoon Belgisch Bouwen 7 (Extraordinary Belgian Building 7) puts 50 special homes by Belgian architects in the spotlight. The

Group (BIG). By working with prefab concrete panels and taking into account the position of the sun, they created a dynamic effect on the facade of the building.

— Amazing Architecture

combination of renowned architects and young talent

Want to stay up to date with the

makes this book a real source of inspiration for every

most amazing projects? Now you

architecture, design and interior design enthusiast.

can! The “amazing.architecture”

athomepublishers.be

Instagram page gives you a handy overview of the most modern, futuristic and contemporary styles in terms of architecture, design and interior design. Are you following it yet? instagram.com/amazing.architecture

! S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y

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ICONIC

Reusing materials is a mindset Urban mining is part of our overall vision on sustainability and innovation. We are already integrating as many circular materials as possible into our construction projects.

In search of urban

building gold In Flanders alone, the building sector produces 15 million tons of construction and demolition waste per year.

This is a sizeable amount, especially

Urban mining means extracting raw materials

when you consider that it’s the equivalent

and materials from construction and demo-

of about 40 demolished Empire State

lition waste in cities, and using them for the

Buildings. This gigantic mountain of waste

construction of new projects. This may involve

is a potential gold mine of reusable raw

different types of materials such as electron-

materials and materials. It is therefore no

ics, wood or metal, but also soil that is dug up

surprise that more and more architects,

for new projects. In Brussels alone, 2 million

engineers, entrepreneurs, and project

tons of soil are excavated each year. We can

developers are showing an interest in urban

transform this soil into clay plaster to finish

mining.

walls, or cob to make floors and non-loadbearing inner walls. Such materials are nothing new, as we built with them in the past, but at some point, we stopped using them. Yet they are very useful: the soil is pressed and not baked, so we don’t need fossil fuels to transform the raw material. This makes them doubly sustainable!

— Price tag Part of the reason why many companies are not yet fully on board with this circular mindset is due to the price. New building materials

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Urban mining For our Burenberg project in Leuven, we worked together with Atelier Circuler vzw.

This Leuven-based association recovers reusable materials from urban buildings as part of its Urban Mining project. It dismantles and extracts these materials before the buildings are demolished or renovated. The mined materials are then sold via “Leuven's Material Database” (“Materialenbank Leuven”), or are reused in other projects.

'As an entrepreneur, it’s important to jump on board right now.

! S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y

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ICONIC

You can learn to recycle We regard old buildings as a source of new raw materials. This is not easy, but it’s a challenge we are increasingly taking on.

are produced in large quantities and are there-

which are not easy to obtain with recycled

fore cheaper – but this is slowly changing. The

material, since the origin is not always clear.

raw materials required to make these mate-

Also, the volume we reuse is often not in line

rials are becoming increasingly expensive,

with what we need for a new project. Small

which means that recuperated materials are

scale is still an obstacle today, but that will

coming more and more into the picture. That's

definitely change. More and more people are

a positive development! It’s particularly good

gaining knowledge on this topic, and gradu-

for our economy to recover and repurpose

ally companies are working along the same

local materials. At the moment, materials are

lines, which will ultimately lead to successful

often obtained from distant countries such as

partnerships.

China or India, which is of very little use to our economy. In addition, it requires unnecessary

— Legislative context

transport, and waste is produced that we also

The role local, regional and national govern-

have to dispose of somewhere else.

ments have to play should not be underestimated here. About 15% of the market consists

— Obstacle

of public tenders, which is a considerable

Making a new high-quality material with

percentage. Consequently, government bod-

a residual product is a challenge. There are

ies can have a significant influence on the

already companies that are looking into how to

real estate world and give a push in the right

produce high-quality concrete from concrete

direction. Fortunately, there are already ini-

debris. But for this, certificates are required,

tiatives from various public authorities. The

'Urban mining is already taking place locally today, which is a good start.

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Brussels-Capital Region, for example, is a pioneer. It has followed a whole process from awareness to experimentation, and is now gradually coming up with a legislative framework in which it is no longer possible to simply demolish buildings. In Bruges, too, certain materials are no longer allowed because they are difficult to recycle or reuse. So things are certainly already happening locally, which is a good start. As an entrepreneur, it’s important to jump on board now – to think about the next steps, and to work on sustainable projects on a smaller scale.

— Toward the future We are optimistic about the future, and hope that a number of measures will be taken in the next decade to make the process of urban mining easier, both in terms of the extraction of raw materials, and the effective reuse of materials in new construction projects. The current CO2 impact of the construction sector obliges us to do this, and the development of urban mining will help us to achieve the climate targets more easily. What is an exception today can become the norm within 10 years. $

! ARCHITECTUR AL GEMS

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Oh what a view The winding staircases of the concert hall lead to a roof platform that offers a breathtaking panoramic view over the valley and the Great Wall.

CHAPEL OF SOUND In the valley near Chengde, a historic city northeast of Beijing, you will not only find the ruins of the Great Wall of China, but also the Chapel of Sound. This mysterious, boulder-shaped concert hall is the work of Li Hu and Huang Wenjing, the founders of the Chinese studio Open Architecture. To minimize the building's ecological footprint, they created an open structure without heating or air conditioning that is in dialogue with the landscape. Its monolithic aspect creates a futuristic look and feel. Designing an excellent acoustic environment without using extra sound-absorbing materials was a real challenge. But by working with acoustic engineers, Li Hu and Huang Wenjing created openings that function both as sound-absorbing spaces, and as a connection to the outside environment.

ICONIC

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© Zhu Runzi

! ARCHITECTUR AL GEMS

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ICONIC

Protective wooden layer A wooden facade cladding has many advantages. Since wood is a PEFC-certified raw material, the cladding requires no maintenance and is weatherproof and UV-resistant.

New Aspen

museum

In the heart of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado, you will find the village of Aspen.

It's famous not only for being the favorite ski resort of many A-list celebrities, but also for its imposing New Aspen Art Museum. The design, by Shigeru Ban Architects, is characterized by transparent and open materials that give visitors a view of their surroundings. Just like the fantastic light, nature and the outdoor environment contribute to the unique museum experience inside. The braided wooden construction on the facade protects the museum in cold weather conditions and keeps the heat in.

This environmentally conscious design is what won the museum the AIA Institute Honor Award in Architecture in 2017.

© Michael Moran

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! TRENDS

From left to right: Herman Konings, Davy Demuynck and Rick Splinter

ICONIC

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Tiny living If you really want to save energy, you have to live smaller. Energy-efficient living and large living simply do not go together.

Living in the future a question of living differently If we want to keep our planet inhabitable

in Belgium have risen enormously, and we've

for everyone, we urgently have to change

invested too much – not in pension funds, but

how we live. But are we as a society ready

in our own properties.”

for that? And are there enough alternatives?

'Who knows, maybe we'll soon be sharing houses like we already do with cars!

— Herman Konings

Herman Konings, change psychologist and

Davy Demuynck: “In the Netherlands, you

trend analyst, Rick Splinter, Associate

also have huge movements towards urban

Partner at Mecanoo Architects, and Davy

areas, so homes in its towns and cities are

Demuynck, CEO of ION, take an innovative

very expensive. We've only just started expe-

look at the future.

riencing this trend in Belgium, because until recently, buying in Antwerp or Brussels was

— Let's start in the here and now. What

pretty affordable. Affordability is the common

does living in 2022 mean to you?

thread in this story. Unfortunately, long-term

Rick Splinter: “Today, we are still failing in

repayment is no longer possible for a certain

many different areas. When I look at the

percentage of the population. This is a major

Netherlands, I see that a great many people

challenge for us.”

rent. There, the middle-class is already short of some 300,000 owner-occupied homes.

Herman Konings: “The younger generations

Alongside issues of sustainability and afforda-

are less interested in owning their own homes.

bility, this scarcity of homes is a real problem.”

Millennials are also more likely to invest.

Unfortunately, they are often tempted by

Herman Konings: “We're also seeing these

cryptocurrency, which does not really have

pain points across the border. House prices

a natural connection to a real economy. The

! TRENDS

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ICONIC

Get your home insulated With the rising gas and electricity prices, it is more important than ever to properly insulate your home. Installing solar panels will also reduce your energy bills!

'It's up to the early adopters to take that first step.

— Davy Demuynck

idea of investing may be the trigger for young

generations in intergenerational cohabitation.

people to rent, and to use their savings to buy

About 20 to 25 percent were keen on a shared

shares instead of bricks and mortar.”

housing solution. So the idea and the intention is there, and now all we need is a little push!

— What alternative ways of living do you

Especially when house and energy prices go

think we will see more often in the future?

up, an alternative such as this can be quite

Davy Demuynck: "The cost of household bills

attractive."

will become increasingly crucial when choosing a home. Just look at the rise in energy prices,

Rick Splinter: "In the Netherlands, too, there

for example. It's apparent that many people

are more and more applications for coliving

never realized such a cost could suddenly dou-

projects, with people from all different age

ble. This shift will provide the necessary posi-

groups signing up. And actually, in every new

tive impulse among the players in the housing

development nowadays there is a kind of

market who are committed to sustainable

cohousing touch."

housing."

Davy Demuynck: "It is up to the early adopHerman Konings: "You notice that in recent

ters to take that first step. But when you

years there has been more and more interest

make the comparison with other sectors, the

in coliving and cohousing. A study by Kantar,

real-estate sector is capital-intensive. For

one of the largest market research firms in

example, the feasibility study and classic view

the world, gauged the interest of the younger

of real-estate from the banking sector play

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a major role. I can see improvement and pro-

– because these are also solutions for the

gress on this score in the future. Technological

mental well-being of the population."

progress will make many things simpler and cheaper, so the traditional players will have to

Davy Demuynck: "The government has a

adapt."

really important role here. The European Green Deal of 2050 is getting closer and closer.

— Will technological progress impact

I expect a legislative framework in which we

real-estate in the future?

will transform housing behaviour, and wave

Herman Konings: "When we talk about the

goodbye to our traditional way of living."

future of real-estate, living and working, my biggest concern is the presence of the big

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players on a global level. For example, Amazon is investing 2 billion dollars in a huge residential complex at a former airport in India, and Google is offering cheaper homes in exchange for data."

Rick Splinter: "When we develop, we also do so with a view to public space and infrastructure. We give something back to the city, creating a new, inclusive neighborhood where everyone is welcome. But will the big players do the same? Will everyone still be allowed to enter these areas and complexes? And who will they rent to, and who not?"

Davy Demuynck: "The traditional real-estate sector will come under serious pressure. Our housing needs have changed enormously in recent years. Young people don't mind moving and house-hopping more often. So there will undoubtedly be a lot of transformation in the coming period."

Herman Konings: "Who knows, maybe we'll soon be sharing houses like we already do with cars!"

— What push do you expect from the government?

Herman Koninckx: "Offering financial support for coliving, cohousing and coworking

ION Real Estape ION was the first in the sector to start its own podcast, which is called 'Real Estape'. Every two months we invite experts to our table to discuss a current theme together.

! S TAT E O F T H E A R T

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Welcome to the Venice Biennale!

Francis Alÿs represents Belgium at the Venice Biennale.

Artist Francis Alÿs will be taking “Do We Live Because We Narrate?” to the 59th Venice Biennale. They will fill the Belgian pavilion with new and existing works that question the relevance of art in conflict and crisis situations.

ICONIC

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Children’s Games Playing marbles in Jordan, building sandcastles on the Belgian coast, or playing football in Mosul: the series Children's Games features footage that Alÿs has collected over the last 20 years of kids playing local games.

! S TAT E O F T H E A R T

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ICONIC

Liberation Day The Biennale, originally planned for 2021, was postponed due to the pandemic. The new opening day is now the day before Italy's Liberation Day, which is the perfect occasion to celebrate togetherness.

contemporary art and architecture. The Venice Film Festival is also part of the event. The event has existed for 125 years and is now gearing up for its 59th edition under the name "How will we live together?". During each Biennale, an artistic director gets the opportunity to curate the central exhibition of the prestigious event.

This year, that honor goes to Cecilia Alemani, an Italian curator from New York. In addition to the central exhibition, you can also find the national pavilions and independent exhibitions during the event. The Belgian pavilion can once again count on the support and sponsorship of ION. — Children's Game #19: Haram Football The submission of Alÿs and Teerlinck was built around the nine-minute film “Haram Football.”

In the film, Alÿs shows children playing soccer in the streets of the Iraqi city of Mosul, something that IS had banned or declared “haram” (forbidden) at the time. By dribbling with an imaginary

'Alÿs puts crisis situations into images in an accessible manner.

ball, the children got around the ban and could It's happening! The internationally acclaimed

forget about the brutal war. The universal visual

artist Francis Alÿs, together with curator Hilde

language, choreography, and creativity gives

Teerlinck, will be taking over the Belgian pavil-

the work a topical edge. In his work, and at the

ion in Venice. In 2020, the five-member jury

Biennale, he tries to portray crisis situations in

selected the duo from six entries including other

an accessible way.

big names such as Anne Teresa De Keersmaeker and An Demeester. “Francis Alÿs deals with history, topicality and location in an impressive way,” the jury concluded. After a year's delay, they have collected new and existing work around the short film “Haram Football.” This is not the first time that Alÿs has participated in the Biennale. In 2017, he was a guest at the Iraqi pavilion with his work about the Yezidi refugee camp.

— Welcome to the Biennale!

The Venice Biennale is an international art exhibition that takes place every other year, from May to November, and focuses on

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Francis Alÿs Visual artist Francis Alÿs was born in 1959 as Francis De Smedt, but chose his mother's surname as his artist name. He studied architecture in Tournai and attended the Universitario di Architettura in Venice. In 1986, he moved to Mexico City to help as an architect in the reconstruction following the previous year's earthquake. With work in the collections of MoMA in New York, Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam, Tate Modern in London and Center Pompidou in Paris, Alÿs is indispensable in the modern art world.

ION Skybox Francis Alÿs is no stranger to ION: you can find his work in the ION Skybox. Paul Thiers, co-founder of ION, talks about the art on display. “We have various artworks hanging in our Skybox. You might recognize the work of photographer Dirk Braeckman or emerging artist Indrikis Gelzis. But the showpiece in our collection is undoubtedly the 12 drawings by Francis Alÿs from the animated film Bolero (Shoe Shine Blues). This film consists of about 500 frames or drawings that have since been sold to various museums and institutions. As a big fan of Alÿs, I absolutely had to get some of these,” says Paul Thiers.

! #AC TION

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ICONIC

Nothing is out of ION's league The ION Hockey League saw the light of day in February. Our ambition as a title partner? To become the best and most prominent hockey competition in the world. Challenge accepted!

From left to right: Arno Janssens, Sander Plets, Sarah Maes, Elisabeth Verstraeten and Emile Steyaert.

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Pass

passion on the

It's not just in the workplace that our

employees give their best every day. Even on weekends, they go for the gold. Our hockey-playing colleagues posed specially for this magazine on the roof of our project The Crown in Bruges.

Make no mistake: sport is very close to our hearts. Respect and sportsmanship are values that we share and our ambitions are also aligned. We are happy to spotlight our competitive DNA!

! FINANCE

34

ICONIC

The price we pay The Belgian Construction Confederation calculated that raw material prices rose by an average of 12% between January and the beginning of March, which was before the impact of the Ukraine crisis started to be felt. Project developers such as ION are doing everything they can to keep the impact under control.

'Et the end of March the fixed interest rate for 20 years was about 1.95%. This has an impact on the borrowing capacity of buyers.

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A heated real-estate market There's no two ways about it: the prices for

inflation results in higher wages. In other

— Thinking of investing? This is the

raw materials and building materials are

words, construction companies are being

perfect time!

skyrocketing, and the entire real-estate

forced into a corner: costly materials plus

Central banks are also responding to high

sector is facing considerable challenges.

higher wages mean construction costs are

inflation in order to keep it under control.

Suppliers will continue to raise their prices,

inevitably higher. And it is not only the cus-

They have raised interest rates, which again

contractors and project developers will

tomers who are impacted.

makes it harder to borrow. Nevertheless, peri-

have to follow suit, and customers will

ods of inflation offer great opportunities to

inevitably have to dig deeper into their

— Are there ready-made solutions?

invest in residential real-estate. People buy

pockets. 2021 was dominated by price

For many developers and construction com-

less and therefore enter the rental market

hikes, inflation, and increased interest

panies, this is a new trend. In recent years,

faster. Real-estate usually retains its value

rates. And these trends are continuing for

we always experienced a growing economy:

and rental income is indexed, which in turn

the time being.

interest rates were low, construction costs

protects the landlord from inflation. So now

were not extremely high, and buyers were

is a great time to consider an investment!

How did we end up in this situation? I'm sure

found without problems, partly thanks to the

it won't surprise you to hear that part of the

low interest rates. The increases we are now

— Toward the future

reason is the coronavirus crisis. The pan-

seeing are quite unprecedented, and there are

History teaches us that this inflationary

demic caused logistical problems, which led

no ready-made solutions. Due to the uncer-

period will not last forever, but also that

to delays in the production of raw materials

tainty, it is becoming increasingly difficult to

inflation will return again in the future. We

and end products, and consequently soaring

conclude fixed-price contracts with contrac-

are doing everything we can to deal with

transport costs. Furthermore, the mismatch

tors. We are evolving towards variable price

the current situation as effectively as pos-

between supply and demand caused scarcity

contracts that take indexation into account.

sible, and to ensure that all parties continue

and thus upward price pressure on materials,

Developers are considering indexing sales

to function. Additionally, we are monitoring

including construction materials. The war in

prices or increasing them to some extent.

further developments to intervene in a timely

Ukraine and the resulting uncertainty mean

In any case, it is inevitable that each link in

manner where necessary. As always, we have

that these developments will continue, per-

the property development chain will have to

a positive outlook on the future!

haps even at an accelerated pace.

absorb part of the price increase: the supplier, the contractor, the project developer, and the

In addition, we are experiencing significantly

buyer. At ION, we're continually striving to

greater energy costs, and rising inflation.

work this out together. We keep a close eye

Because of the indexation system, higher

on trends and are vigilant for further changes.

$

! TECHNOLOGY

36

ICONIC

A natural protective layer In timber construction, your building is protected from fire by the natural layer that trees also have. It will char, but the core remains intact!

Finch Buildings loves

sustainability Sustainable, modular and constructed

— 8 modules per day

rapidly: it almost sounds too good to be

Jurrian: “The advantages of modular con-

true. With modular timber construction,

struction? We make our standard compo-

Jurrian Knijtijzer, founder of Dutch

nents in a factory and then put the building

company Finch Buildings, is shaking up the

together on the site. Under these controlled

real estate sector. Since it was established

conditions, we can work very quickly. We

in 2014, Finch Buildings has produced more

manufacture 8 modules per day, and can set

than 8,500 modules made of wood and

up 10 modules per day on location. In order to

stored more than 10,000 tonnes of CO2.

make this whole process flawless, we work together with a large number of partners.

— Wood is hot

Architects, entrepreneurs and manufactur-

Jurrian: “Finch Buildings stands for fast, flexi-

ers all help to make our projects a success.”

ble and carbon-positive construction. I encoun-

'We are not a competitor but a partner of traditional.

— Jurrian Knijtijzer

tered modular building during my studies, but

— Competition?

for me, quality and sustainability was missing

Jurrian: “Gradually, we discovered that, con-

from the story – especially when you know

trary to our initial expectations, we are a

that about 36% of all CO2 emissions come

partner and not a competitor of traditional

from the built environment... The big culprit

constructors. After the perhaps some-

in the real estate story is concrete. If it were a

what difficult start in terms of cooperation,

country, it would be the third-largest polluter

our partners can quickly see the benefits.

in the world after the U.S. and China! It was

Cooperation means we can work perfectly

vital to make a switch and opt for timber con-

within our margin and twice as fast for the

struction. Like plants, wood photosynthesizes

same price. Of course, it requires a certain

and therefore stores CO2. In addition, we also

amount of flexibility and adaptation, but so

manage our raw material in a sustainable way:

far we've been able to complete every project

in our certified production forest in Austria, we

with smooth cooperation!”

plant 5 new trees for every 3 trees used!”

37

— A dream for the future Jurrian: “At Finch Buildings, we're always looking toward the next step. That's how we got in touch with the Belgian investment group Amavi in 2020. The group's network, combined with its

Jurrian Knijtijzer

real estate and technological knowledge, imme-

During his studies as an architect, he first learned

diately convinced us to forge a partnership with

about modular construction. But the projects he

them. Thanks to Amavi's contacts, we hope to

found lacked quality and sustainability, in his view.

expand into Belgium soon. In addition to the necessary catching-up in the field of sustainable construction, we can also help the country achieve the European Green Deal objectives.

And this is not only the case in Belgium, by the way: here in the Netherlands, too, we believe that Finch Buildings' modular and compact timber construction could be the perfect answer to our current housing and climate crisis!” $

As a modular, high-quality and sustainable product, cross-laminated timber proved to be the solution.

In 2014, Jurrian took matters into his own hands by establishing Finch Buildings. He wants to contribute to a future in which buildings are an active solution to the climate change problem.

! SPEAKERS CORNER

38

A team that is already expanding In a short time, and all but unnoticed, ION Luxembourg has already built a fantastic team. This currently consists of two employees commuting between Brussels and Luxembourg. A third employee will join at the end of May.

ICONIC

39

ION landed in Luxembourg barely eight months ago. But in that short time, the first projects have already been acquired.

Undeniably, the experience and decisiveness of Stephane Deby has had a lot to do with this. The fact that the Luxembourgish DNA is very similar to ION's DNA also helps a little.

ION spreads its wings — What is your experience in the real

inspired by the dynamism of Kristof and Davy.

estate world?

The energy they radiate absolutely drew me in.

Stéphane: "I graduated in engineering but after

ION's DNA also played a role. "I am convinced

my studies, I quickly began to focus on urban

that Luxembourgers will recognize themselves

development rather than construction. Being

in the sense for aesthetics and the characteris-

able to start with an undeveloped plot and work

tic Flemish accuracy."

out a vision for it has always fascinated me. I took my first steps with Thomas & Piron, then

— What does your job involve?

moved to the Matexi Group, and finally started

Stéphane: "At the moment, it’s primarily

working for the Promobe Group. I worked for the

focused on acquiring land. When I started in

latter, which is a market leader in Luxembourg,

the position, I looked up all my contacts from

for 17 years. There, I was mainly responsible for

the past 25 years and presented ION to them.

the development of lots and projects. I had the

And this proved successful: many were really

good fortune to work with many different, well-

interested and very enthusiastic about working

known architects, and to realize exceptional

together on a new adventure."

projects."

— Why is ION interested in Luxembourg?

— So what made you make the switch

Stéphane: "It's clear that ION has a growth

to ION?

model. And Luxembourg is of course right next

Stéphane: "I was interested in taking on a

to Belgium. It’s also a country that is doing well

new challenge with ION, and was immediately

economically, and where the purchasing power

! SPEAKERS CORNER

40

ICONIC

Luxembourg, a country for everyone An inhabitant of the border region remains first and foremost attached to their own culture and to the culture of their country of origin.

For example, a French person would consider living in Luxembourg, but rarely in Germany or Belgium.

of the population is fairly high. What’s more, Luxembourg is a country of clarity and transparency. Our regulations and laws are quite precise: when you buy a plot, the land use and the building regulations are clearly defined. So anyone who builds in Luxembourg is not taking a leap into the unknown."

— What market are you going to focus on?

Stéphane: "Luxembourg is not a big country, and its commercial activities are mainly

'I am convinced that Luxembourgers recognize themselves in the sense for aesthetics and the characteristic Flemish accuracy .

— Stéphane Deby

concentrated in four areas where the land is already largely occupied. That is why, with ION. we are mainly focusing on the sale of residential real estate. The demand for housing here is still high. Although we have to pay attention to the selling price. The price of real estate in Luxembourg City is so prohibitively high that, for many people, it’s simply impossible to buy a property. As a result, some of the population has left the country, moving to the border regions of Belgium, Germany or France. Border cities such as Trier, Aarlen and Thionville have a certain attraction."

Stéphane: "But I am pleased to say that after eight months, we have already received our first dossiers, including a 11,000 m2 project in Steinfort where we will build two residences of 20 apartments and 25 houses. That gives you confidence."

41

— What are the next steps?

Stéphane: "Acquiring land is good, but after that, you also have to build and develop, of course! We are currently enlisting engineers and architects so we can draw up plans and negotiate with municipalities' urban planning departments. We hope to move very quickly to the next phase, and start the construction work."

— What are your biggest challenges?

Stéphane: "The biggest challenge remains finding good building land at reasonable prices.

Being down to earth is one of the keys to ION's success. So here in Luxembourg, too, we will do everything we can to keep our feet on the ground and find a balance." $

In the shadow of a Luxembourg icon ION's office building is a stone's throw from the famous Banque Internationale à Luxembourg (BIL). Founded in 1856, it is the oldest private bank in Luxembourg.

42

! UNDER CONSTRUC TION

ICONIC

A new green corner in the heart of our capital When you think about recycled buildings, think Monteco! We are redeveloping the office building into a carbon-neutral place to work, with a skeletal structure made entirely of wood. With eight floors, it is a first for Brussels!

43

! THE RESIDENT

44

ICONIC

Surrounded by greenery, sustainable and easily accessible Welcome to Treenity! The residential project is located a stone's throw from the village of Liedekerke and has a beautiful view of Liedekerke forest (Liedekerkebos). Resident Kim Asselman tells us about her new place.

Living in Treenity The dream home of interior designer Kim As an interior designer, Kim Asselman

to do my own thing, which is ideal for some-

seized the opportunity to design her new

one like me who's in the business!”

apartment in Treenity herself. She tells us about the adjustments she has made,

— Favorite spot

its quiet and convenient location, and her

Kim loves to talk about her favorite spot in

favorite spot in the apartment.

the apartment, which is her balcony. “The south-facing balcony is not only large, but

Treenity is located between the forest and

also covered – which means we can sit out-

the center of Liedekerke. The project con-

side in the winter too. In addition, Block B,

sists of three apartment blocks, each with

the building where I live, has the best view

tons of light and views of nature. “I heard

of the Liedekerkebos and the meadows. I

about the Treenity project through word

chose the second floor to be able to enjoy

of mouth and I was immediately sold on

the view to the fullest!” When we ask her

it – firstly by the quiet, favorable location,

about the first piece of furniture she bought

and then by the architecture,” explains Kim.

for her new place, Kim doesn't have to think

“As an interior designer, it was very impor-

for long. “The Eames Lounge Chair! This

tant for me to be involved in the finishing

Vitra chair had been on my wishlist for a

— Born in 1984

and overall design of my new apartment.

while, and I immediately imagined it in front

— Lives in Liedekerke

Fortunately, I got this opportunity and was

of the large window. In the chair, I can enjoy

— Has an 8-year-old son

able to develop my plans when I bought

a fantastic view and simply dream away the

it, in consultation with ION and FVWW

day. It was a must-have piece of furniture!”

Kim Asselman

— Co-owner & interior designer at ES.KA Creators

Architects. In the end, I was given the freedom to customize the finish. I'm still very

— Pure nature

grateful for this,” says Kim enthusiastically.

Although Kim was initially after a house with a garden, she couldn't ignore the

“I also made a lot of changes in terms of the

Treenity project. “I was originally looking for

shell. Since there are only two of us, I didn't

a house with a garden where my son could

think a second bathroom was necessary. We

play. But eventually we chose an apartment,

used this space to expand one of the bed-

and I haven't regretted it for a second. On

rooms.” The adjustments went extremely

the contrary, I never want to leave!” In addi-

smoothly, adds Kim. “And that's what's so

tion to the advantages of living somewhere

fun about this project. I've really been able

smaller, Kim and her son are loving the

45

Eames Lounge Chair This 1956 lounge chair by Charles & Ray Eames quickly grew into one of the most important furniture designs of the twentieth century. The duo met at university and designed affordable and comfortable furniture pieces together for years.

Following a first contract with the Herman Miller Company, they signed an agreement in 1957 with Vitra, the Swiss furniture company, to produce their designs. Since then, Charles & Ray Eames' designs have been kept alive.

! THE RESIDENT

46

ICONIC

Back to her roots After living in Lede for a while, Kim has returned to her roots in Liedekerke. And she hasn't regretted her move for a second.

green surroundings. The complex is located

glimpse of the future. “I'm looking forward

in a quiet street, which is safe for children

to when the finishing is complete and all

to play in, and the forest is very close. “This

the plants are in bloom here. Bring on the

safe, green environment makes Treenity

summer!”

the ideal place for my son.” $

— Savoring the silence “I am involved in architecture, construction and interior design on a daily basis, so I immediately recognized the materials that would be used. The sustainable choices convinced me straight away. In addition, the low energy consumption was also a decisive factor in my choice. Especially today, this is a huge advantage. But if I have to choose one trump card, it's definitely the peace and quiet. I can really savor the silence here.”

Kim concludes our conversation with a

'As an interior designer, I have really been able to do my own thing!

— Kim Asselman

47

SPOT LIGHT

Treenity brings nature inside your living space A T R I O O F G R E E N E R Y, P E A C E A N D C O M F O R T

48

! TREENIT Y

Easily accessible and surrounded by greenery. Welcome to Treenity!

Its design, with a great deal of attention to greenery and natural light, ensures exceptional living comfort.

ICONIC

49

IN NUMBERS ARCHITECTS: BUILDINGS: FVWW ENVIRONMENT: GRASLAND INVESTMENT VALUE: EUR 21.500.000 SURFACE AREA: 2,3 HA 60 APARTMENTS SPREAD OVER 3 BUILDINGS, EACH WITH AN UNDERGROUND FLOOR FOR BICYCLES, CARS AND STORAGE ROOMS JV-PARTNER: RPD (RETAIL PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT)

! TREENIT Y

50

ICONIC

Low-traffic site Thanks to the underground parking garages, we have created a low-traffic site where you can enjoy a peaceful walk, and children can play outside safely.

'The 60 apartments with balconies offer peace, lots of natural light, high quality, and oneness with nature.

The durable materials, in combination with the energy-efficient choices and minimalist look, make Treenity complete.

51

! TREENIT Y

52

ICONIC

View of greenery Treenity consists of 3 small-scale residential blocks, with a total of 60 apartments. Each apartment has a large balcony with a beautiful view of the surrounding greenery.

53

Everything is designed with great attention to nature, openness, and comfort. Completely unwind Treenity after a busy working day.

54

! TREENIT Y

ICONIC

55

The planted areas and specially constructed ponds mean that the neighborhood changes with the seasons.

! TREENIT Y

56

Extra-low energy costs Environmentally friendly measures such as heat pumps and solar panels make Treenity's apartments almost energy-neutral.

By car or public transport. Treenity enjoys an excellent location between Ghent and Brussels.

ICONIC

57

! TREENIT Y

58

ICONIC

Minimalist architecture The design team chose stylish architecture that blends in with its surroundings. Thanks to their low-rise construction, the three blocks are at one with nature.

The well thought-out layout ensures maximum use of the space in each apartment.

59

'Living in greenery, a stone's throw from Liedekerke?

Treenity combines the best of both worlds.

! TREENIT Y

60

ICONIC

Dive into nature Jog along the Dender? Take a trip to Liedekerkebos? Cycle in Pajottenland? In the green area around Brussels, you can fully relax.

Let nature surprise you in Brussels’ Green Belt.

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Iconic, the eighth edition june 2022

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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