Along the Beukelsdijk stands a small tower, firmly and sturdy. The red, rough textured, concrete mass cannot be easily denied. Through it's location it connects two main spatial areas of the neighborhood. It marks the end or beginning of the striking Graaf Florisstraat where trees cover the street like a natural canopy, and it defines the corner of the park of the Henegouwerplein overlooking the sports fields and the city centre.
From these two orientations the…
Along the Beukelsdijk stands a small tower, firmly and sturdy. The red, rough textured, concrete mass cannot be easily denied. Through it's location it connects two main spatial areas of the neighborhood. It marks the end or beginning of the striking Graaf Florisstraat where trees cover the street like a natural canopy, and it defines the corner of the park of the Henegouwerplein overlooking the sports fields and the city centre.
From these two orientations the tower can be entered. On either side, a spiraling staircase leads upwards. The steps and walls almost seem to be carved out of the rough concrete block, the surfaces smoothly textured. Along the way, openings offer views on the different characteristic streets with the view over the Graaf Florisstraat as its climax. The stairs lead to different kinds of rooms and spaces such as a tribune, a rotonda, an oculus and a viewing platform. Along the walls of these spaces, the smooth concrete is exchanged for polished red terrazzo. The terracotta tones of the Verona Marble are reminiscent of cocciopesto and derive their colors from the red housing blocks in the surrounding area.
The tower offers an focal point for the neighborhood. It can be a place to meet and meet up, to explore and to discover, to play or to relax. Or simply, take in the views of the city.
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