Maxwan Architects + Urbanists shared with ArchDaily their winning proposal for the Machelen-Diegem masterplan. This urban area is located in Brussels, Belgium and is filled with historic value. The site, located between the arteries of the capital of Europe (surrounded by airport, road and rail infrastructure), in the vicinity of strategic economic development, near a large city, yet affordable living in a green environment, Machelen and Diegem is a very interesting area. The nature of the site poses a variety of challenges for the designers.
Read on for more on the resolutions of this urban plan after the break.
The site, Machelen-Diegem, presents itself as a series of contrasts. It is located in the large urban area; yet often is reminiscent of a small community. It is divided by a series of imposed infrastructural lines (rail, highway and international airport); while its long term economic vitality hinges upon the proximity to these networks. Historically it is two distinct villages; that now function under one governmental body. These potentials and problems present a rich set of questions.
