The site occupies a total area of 5,141 m² and comprises the sheds, offices and warehouses of the former John Martin brewery. The developers are aiming to build around a hundred units. The architects based their design on the three central pillars of identity, collectivity and creativity.

The point of departure for the project’s identity is the history of the site and the Martin family brewery. The family was eager to further convey their heritage by developing and running a microbrewery in the very location where their great-grandfather set up the business so long ago. Moreover, everything will be done to retain the valuable historical features including the ware­house, the chimney and the margarine factory and incorporate them into the project, particularly because they contribute to the neighbourhood’s identity.

As far as collectivity is concerned, every effort will be made to create spacious, high-quality areas for both the residential components and the tradespeople, offices and workshops. A unique 350m² common dining, reception and living area will be at the core of the residential component, where residents can together relax, hold meetings, and where the youngest members of the community can play in a safe, covered indoor area. The development of a central green courtyard is also part of this concept. The project encompasses much more than a purely residential development. The architects and developers are also eager to fulfil a social role and devise a high-calibre project that embraces both inclusion and diversity.

The project’s creativity focuses primarily on the former warehouse and workshops. Together they occupy some 5,500 m² and they will be renovated with due care and attention. This is where a creative hub of companies will arise, which will have made a conscious choice to establish themselves in an up-and-coming neighbourhood and in a building with both unique dimensions and charm. Storage, tradespeople and offices, creative and possibly even supporting occupations will all have the opportunity to move into a building that will become a beacon for the neighbourhood and a vibrant melting pot of activity.

The redevelopment of the John Martin site is in keeping with BPI Real Estate’s ambition to consider innovative projects for tomorrow’s multicultural cities with a human dimension at their heart. Alongside other projects in such locations as Antwerp, Lot-Beersel, Knokke and Tervuren, the company intends to continue broadening its scope across Flanders in this way.