I got a few complaints from men (yes, apparently a few men read my blog and yes Han, I’m also talking about you) that I never write about the architectural environment in my posts. So I promised to do my very best, as a layman, to say something about all the beautiful places where the pictures are taken. Now, don’t expect a long detailed enlightenment… architecture for dummies will do for now.

First one is deSingel, the International Arts Campus in Antwerp. We’ve taken quite some pictures here since it’s a very versatile building that has been further developed throughout the years. The architect who started designing the complex in 1958 was Léon Stynen. He was also responsible for both the extensions in 1978 and 1987. If you go to deSingel in the near future you definitely have to check out the oval windows which are one of Stynen’s trademarks.

 

 

In 1995 the real challenge came along for architect Stéphane Beel who was instructed to draw-up the expansion of deSingel and the conservatory with respect for Stynen’s work. Everyone was very enthusiastic about his plans and one year later he got the final approval. The project was realized in two phases and it took till 2010 to finalize everything. Beel was responsible for the modernistic and minimalistic parts for which he used a lot of wood and glass.

 

 

These pictures are taken at one of the new parts of the building, designed by Stéphane Beel. I had actually never been there because usually I just make it to the entrance or to the Grand Café on top and back. When on a citytrip you’re always discovering new places and looking around but in your town you just get used to everything. Luckily the location hunt always forces Ilja and I to forget about our comfort zone and to open our eyes. And that must be a good thing, right?

 

Wearing: jacket – IRO, t-shirt – SUPERTRASH, jeans – CURRENT ELLIOTT, sneakers – ADIDAS, belt – CHEAP MONDAY

Pictures by Ilja Sura Changlor Smets