In collaboration with Michel Desvignes and Anish Kapoor, our proposal for the redevelopment of a historic 1900s veterinary university campus in Brussels was a study in balancing preservation with visionary urban design. As a shortlisted entry in the international Masterplan Ideas Competition, we sought to transform the site into a dynamic, contemporary space while respecting its academic legacy.

Our concept, titled Air Brussels, proposed a layered landscape that celebrated the existing architectural fabric while introducing new interventions to foster social interaction and cultural engagement. A series of interconnected public spaces, including gardens and courtyards designed by Desvignes, wove through the campus, encouraging exploration and reflection. Kapoor’s sculptural elements punctuated these spaces, providing moments of artistic contemplation.

The masterplan envisioned a seamless integration of nature, art, and academia. Through careful planning, we introduced sustainable design elements that ensured the site remained both functional and future-proof. Though we were named competition runner-up, Air Brussels stands as a testament to our belief in the transformative power of design to breathe new life into historic spaces.