PROJECT

Market square of Meulebeke

CLIENT

Municipality Meulebeke

DESIGN

Denis Dujardin BV and Infrabureau Demey

CONTRACTOR

NV Casteleyn

KLEIKLINKER

DecimA Sepia, SeptimA Sepia en DecimA Vanilla

Photography: © Tijs Ketsman

In 2022, the municipality of Meulebeke decided to thoroughly redesign its central market square and the surrounding area. The plans were developed through a collaboration between Infrabureau Demey and Denis Dujardin, and aimed to improve both the functionality and aesthetics of the square, while prioritizing sustainability and water management. A key choice in this project was the use of Vande Moortel clay pavers, which could be installed water-permeable without spacers or loss of comfort, while adding aesthetic value. The project has now also been awarded the prestigious Vande Moortel Clay Paver Award 2022 - 2023 in the "Public spaces" category.

Functional challenges in the design

Various aspects were crucial in the complex design of this new market square, such as the implementation of a separated sewer system, the infiltration of surface water into the soil and a revised approach to general mobility and livability in and around the market square. The circulation plan around the church was changed, a new bicycle zone was introduced, and a connection point for public transport was created, all while maintaining parking spaces and accommodating the weekly market stalls. In addition, the market square also had to serve as a functional public space with green accents and a colour palette in the pavement, to make the design not only functional, but also visually pleasing.

The choice of Vande Moortel clay pavers

Since two of the requirements for the design were the maximum retention of parking spaces and the integration of market stalls, the market square needed sufficient paving. Clay pavers are a popular choice for urban redevelopment in Flanders, especially because of their robustness, durability and aesthetic qualities. In Meulebeke, the clay pavers DecimA in Sepia and Vanilla and the Sepia were chosen, high-quality products that are both durable and elegant. These clay pavers were specifically selected to find a balance between functionality and beauty. They are not only visually appealing as a sustainable paving material, but also particularly suitable for water management, one of the critical aspects in this project.

The water permeability of the clay pavers is an important asset for public spaces at a time when climate adaptation and water management are at the top of the agenda. Cities and towns increasingly face heavy rainfall and flooding, and paving materials that are water permeable can contribute to better drainage of rainwater, especially in combination with green areas. Vande Moortel's clay pavers combine high water permeability with a long lifespan, making them an ideal choice for the redevelopment of public spaces such as Meulebeke’s market square.

Alternating between green and pavement

The aspect of water permeability was one of the core principles of the redevelopment project. Instead of creating a fully paved square that would direct rainwater straight to the sewer system, a combination of water permeable materials and green spaces was chosen to capture and allow water infiltration. Where the square used to be mainly functional with little attention to greenery, there is now significantly more space for nature. Trees, shrubs and grass lawns alternate with the paved areas of the square, which not only offers a pleasant aesthetic, but also enhances the livability and ecology of the square. This alternation also creates shady areas and cool spaces, which are especially advantageous during the summer months. The elliptical concrete modules with greenery with integrated seating provide an extra dynamic and playfulness, while avoiding the traditional rigidity of such market places.

Functionality and aesthetic added value

In addition to the technical advantages of the clay pavers and the water-permeable system, the renovated square also offers a clear aesthetic appeal. The chosen materials, combined with the new design of the square, ensures a modern, sleek appearance that fits perfectly with Meulebeke’s historical context. The design respects the existing architecture of the town, while still feeling contemporary and functional. The clay pavers enhance this aesthetic with their natural colours and textures, which are both classic and timeless. They give the square a warm and inviting atmosphere, improving the overall experience of the space. It has become a place where residents enjoy spending time, not only for the weekly market, but also for everyday use.

Additionally, the functional requirements of a market square were taken into account in the design. There is sufficient space for market stalls, events and gathering areas, without compromising the aesthetics or the comfort of the visitors. The combination of greenery and pavement ensures that the square can be used flexibly, making it a valuable meeting place for the community.

The success of the redevelopment project in Meulebeke did not go unnoticed. The project won the Vande Moortel Clay Paver Award 2022 - 2023 in the "Public spaces" category. This prestigious award rewards innovative and sustainable projects that use clay pavers. The jury praised the project for its balance between functionality, aesthetics and sustainability, and highlighted the exemplary way in which water management and climate adaptation were integrated into the design.