Grote Markt

Much-praised reorganization of the largest city square in Europe, which, along with the restructured station area also conceived by cepezed, belongs to the most important renovation projects of Sint-Niklaas. For many years, the experience of the square, both visually and spatially, was determined by cars. The surrounding streets were sections of busy through roads and the square itself was one large untidy parking lot. The Grote Markt was a chaotic, crowded, and isolated spot in the centre of town. A grand and spacious urban square with a detailed peripheral zone was designed as an integral solution to the sum of the problems. The through traffic was rerouted, and a clear and simple circulation plan was drawn up for local traffic. All types of road users have been allocated their own, safe, and orderly place in the system. A half-open car park has been constructed under the fringes of the square. As a result, the central area is completely free of obstacles and is available as a plaza for all kinds of events. Here one can see and be seen, sit on the benches, and enjoy (spontaneous) encounters. The promenade has a high sojourn quality and is extremely inviting, partly due to the scale contrast with the square. The public space has been restructured, repaved, and refurnished. The façades of the premises on the square have been restored to their former glory so that the relationship between the square and the buildings has been improved. The jumble of pavement cafés has been resolved by means of clear demarcation and uniform partitions. The restructuring has literally given the Grote Markt back to the city. The square has reacquired its grandeur, atmosphere and sojourn quality and is once again an enjoyable location in the social life of Sint-Niklaas.