Since its redevelopment in 2008, Flagey Square has become an indispensable meeting place for the people of Brussels, whether it's for having a coffee, attending a concert at Flagey, taking the bus or tram, strolling through the market, or letting children play in the fountains. However, the square remains very paved and does not meet current needs for permeable and green public space to address heat island effects, manage rain and runoff water, and provide shaded outdoor spaces for various users.

The design for the redevelopment of Flagey Square and the St Croix square envisions significant demineralization of both squares with the planting of a total of 60 new trees along with a lush layer of bushes and perennials. The current tree pits will also be addressed to improve the growth conditions of the existing trees. The interventions aim to help cool the square during the summer months, retain water during heavy rain, introduce greater biodiversity, and create a more pleasant meeting space.

The renewal project carefully considers existing activities such as the market and circus, while respecting the original design by Latz and partners. Consequently, the central space on Flagey Square remains fully open, and the benches and fountains are preserved.

Location: Ixelles, BE | Program: Redesign of public space | Year: 2022-... | Client: Commune d'Ixelles & Brussels Mobility | Status: Phase 1 completed | Budget: €1.000.000 | Size: 26.000m² | Collaboration: Fallow + Kollektif Landscape | Engineering: Écorce | People: Carmen Van Maercke, Michaël Stas, Matthias Salaets, Manon Bourdin | Execution: Krinkels | Photographs: Jan De Wilde