Kaai City

Kortrijk, Belgium
2016-

Kaai City is a cornerstone of the urban area on the right bank of the Leie in Kortrijk. This project, a collaboration between HOWEST and the city of Kortrijk, with CAAAP as the developer, aims to create a vibrant and multifunctional urban hotspot. The design combines spaces for studying, working, living, relaxing, eating, and drinking, contributing to a dynamic riverside experience.

The building consists of a solid base with sculpted volumes above, rising towards the Leie and lowering towards the neighboring buildings.

Team
Sven Goedefroo, Tess Holvoet, Francis Verkinderen
Client
CAAAP
Landscape
Studio Basta
Structural engineer
COBE
M.E.P. engineer
BM Engineering
Photography
Shiran Potié

The base of the building, supported by structural columns, elevates the structure and creates an arcade at ground level, offering extra shelter from rain. The façades are largely open towards the city, with large windows providing significant transparency. The serrated outer façades emphasize verticality and segmentation, directing views from the apartments. Inner façades are more closed to ensure privacy, featuring brick walls with minimal window openings.

The light color of the bricks enhances the shadow effects of the serration, adding depth to the façades. Vertical windows support the overall verticality of the design. The serration is applied differently depending on the function of the space, such as student housing, maisonettes, offices, and apartments. The school within the building features a unique glazed brick façade, promoting unity and integration in the overall design.

The central cross-shaped cutout not only provides a playful interaction of volumes and sightlines but also creates a lower area for an intensive rooftop garden. This green space serves as an internal area where residents and users of the building can relax and spend time.