How to build on a void? In the midst of the site of the childrens’ farm Rivierenhof in Antwerp stands a World War 2 bunker that takes up space and blocks life. Re-Claiming ground reverses this image: In a targeted intervention, the now dead space is activated and reinterpreted into a foundation for a new cultural site. Using reclaimed timber elements from the port industry, a small pavilion is created with simple, precise handicraft techniques as a central place for internal and public events of the childrens’ farm. The project aims at the social exploitation of seemingly worthless space and material by means of architectural and constructional strategies. Under the guidance of an international tutor team, the participants will examine the site and the given material, jointly develop an architectural concept, and learn simple craft methods. The group will then build the project together using simple tools and techniques.

The 2-weeks international design & build workshop is aimed at undergraduate, postgraduate and PhD students of architecture, architectural engineering and structural engineering. It comprises analysis, design, construction, lectures, discussions, and excursions. The number of participants is limited to 20. Prerequisites are a sense of making, the ability for teamwork and curiosity. 

Fee

Participation fee: 100 EURO, includes receptions, excursions, materials, and the use of tools.

Location and time

Kinderboerderij Rivierenhof, Antwerpen

30 August - 10 September

Tutors

Mario Rinke (University of Antwerp)

Alessandro Tellini (ETH Zurich)

Klaus Zwerger (TU Vienna)

Sven Verbruggen (University of Antwerp)