July 29, 2025 Competitions, News
Sluis park · Leuven, Belgium
Enriching the relationship between city and water
From industrial zone to vibrant urban quarter
The redevelopment of the area around Vaartkom in Leuven has transformed a former industrial site into a thriving mixed-use district, seamlessly integrating housing, offices and commercial spaces. Remarkable buildings of great historical value have been repurposed, while some outdated structures have given way for new developments. Sluis park plays a crucial role in this transformation, turning a once-neglected space into a dynamic urban park that fosters community life.
Revealing the Dyle River
Historically, the Dyle River has been central to Leuven’s identity, yet much of it had been hidden beneath the urban fabric. Our design embraces the opportunity to reintegrate the river into the cityscape, creating a park where water and landscape come together in a sustainable and engaging way. The project incorporates flood-resilient areas, fish passages, and a thoughtfully designed water playground, enhancing both biodiversity and public enjoyment.
A park for the neighbourhood
Sluis park is structured around a network of soft mobility routes, weaving together a variety of distinct spaces. Residents and visitors can enjoy playgrounds, an event square, a walnut orchard, generous lawns, and water features, all designed to encourage interaction and relaxation. The park offers a thoughtful balance between programmed spaces and flexible open areas, making it a natural extension of the neighbourhood—an urban garden at the community’s doorstep.
