Bar-Tabac

This project focused on urban research in the Malem neighbourhood in Ghent, exploring how minimal architectural interventions could help revitalise the area. My design approach aimed to respect and preserve the neighbourhood's identity by leaving the characteristic white houses largely untouched.

Along the main street, the façades were subtly doubled to create a gradual transition between private and public space, allowing residents to experience change in a gentle and familiar way. The central street was transformed into a car-free zone through small-scale interventions that prioritise cyclists and children, encouraging safe movement and social interaction.

By working with careful, minimal adjustments rather than large-scale transformations, the project proposes a strategy to strengthen community life and improve public space while maintaining the existing character of the neighbourhood.