Housing cooperatives

Wasserij, Antwerp

A new urban housing project with 91 units is being developed at the site of a former industrial laundry and body shop in Oud-Berchem by project developer Fides. This co-housing project for 27 families is being developed in collaboration with housing cooperation Wooncoop. Residents do not own their apartment or home, but they do co-own the cooperation. As a cooperative member and future user, they are involved in the design process and the management of the building and the garden. Stramie architectuur & ruimte was appointed as architect.

Their design includes a combination of demolition, restoration and new construction. The restoration of the brick chimney and some of the warehouses will help the site retain some of its industrial character. A new public entrance will bisect the building block and a natural, tree-filled city garden will form the beating heart of the project. Communal living areas, offices and multifunctional spaces (some of which are accessible to residents in the surrounding area) will be created on the ground floor of the co-housing project. The housing types vary from duplexes to studios to apartments. Laundry facilities, guest rooms, play areas and workspaces are all shared. Car sharing is also encouraged, and a large bicycle storage area will be created in the basement.