Belgian solutions for a comfortable city: The Waregem experience

Hi! I share the successful urban solutions I saw in the city of Waregem in Belgium. The city is relatively small, but quite densely populated. As of 1 January 2020, its population was about 38,300.

During my observations of the urban environment, I drew attention to several progressive urban solutions that are actively integrated into modern urban planning. In particular, my attention was drawn to examples of the use of a lawn grid, which is the embodiment of a permeable road surface that plays a role in creating green infrastructure. Considered the concept of vertical landscaping, or «green walls». And analyzed the organization of public space, where priority is given to pedestrians, conditions are created for interaction and socialization.

The photo shows a type of permeable road surface, often called lawn grating, eco-parking or permeable paving. From an urban point of view, permeable coverage and grass represent a key element of modern green infrastructure and sustainable urban planning.

Traditional asphalt and concrete pavements in cities are impermeable, resulting in rapid accumulation of large volumes of rainwater, congestion of urban sewage systems, local flooding and pollution of water bodies. Lawn grates, in turn, allow water to seep into the soil, simulating the natural cycle. This reduces the risk of floods and improves water quality as the soil acts as a natural filter. This is part of the «spongecity concept, which is becoming increasingly important in the face of climate change.

This coating helps reduce the effect of «urban heat island». Temperatures in built-up areas are significantly higher than in the suburban area due to the fact that concrete and asphalt absorb and radiate heat. Green spaces integrated into the coating cool the air by evaporating water and reducing the absorption of solar radiation. Also, this approach increases the area of green spaces in the city.

The approach is in line with European sustainability standards and concepts promoted, for example, by the «New European Bauhaus», which highlights the importance of integrating sustainability, inclusiveness and aesthetics.

In the photo below, a large part of the facade is covered with a thick layer of vegetation. This is a vivid example of vertical landscaping or «green wall» (green wall /living wall).

Vertical landscaping — it is a system that allows plants to be grown vertically on the walls of buildings, usually with the help of special modular systems that hold soil or other substrate for plant growth and have a built-in irrigation and drainage system. It is one of the most progressive and visually effective solutions in modern planning.

As in the previous example with a lawn grid, vertical landscaping is a tool for reducing the effect of «urban heat island». Green walls, thanks to vegetation, significantly reduce the heating of facades.

The photo shows a modern urban space that functions as a pedestrian zone. The entire space is laid out with light tiles, which emphasizes its purpose exclusively for pedestrians. On both sides are modern buildings with large glass windows on the first floors, which belong to shops, cafes, and possibly offices. Long white canopies or pergolas with horizontal slats are installed above the pedestrian paths. These elements perform a practical function, creating shade and protecting pedestrians from the sun. Benches are placed along the path.

This example clearly demonstrates the priority of pedestrians in urban planning, which encourages interaction and socialization between people.