Gent - Ghent - Theatre infrastructure Kazematten (non-profit organisation)

Since March 2007, Ultima Thule and 4hoog have been jointly occupying old factory premises close to Ghent’s Dampoort station. 4hoog works for infants, toddlers and children and Ultima Thule produces puppet theatre for youngsters and adults.

As the non-profit organisation De Kazematten, they wish to convert the former cabinet-making workshop into a theatre centre of the same name. This will mainly function as place of creation and presentation for the two resident companies, 4hoog and Ultima Thule. In addition, the infrastructure will also be available for the cultural activities of third parties with special consideration for local neighbourhood initiatives.

The City of Ghent is a financial partner in the creation of De Kazematten because it shares common aims with the De Kazematten non-profit organisation.
In addition to remedying a shortage of professional and affordable event venues in Ghent, there is an important focus on the local neighbourhood. The premises are located in the Sint-Macharius district, one of the oldest in Ghent. This project will see the arrival of a cultural player which will upgrade this working-class neighbourhood and free it from its isolation.
Due to the location of the De Kazematten project, the non-profit organisation is eligible for financial support from the European Regional Development Fund (objective II).

The client is aiming for trendsetting architectural quality that also respects the existing character of the area. In order to guarantee the optional functioning of the resident companies, the following accommodation must be incorporated in De Kazematten: an auditorium (200 seats) with a foyer, two rehearsal rooms, a scenery storeroom with a workshop and office space for two organisations.
The building must be a pleasant working environment for the staff of 4hoog and Ultima Thule. Optimal and clear accessibility and an inviting reception area are extremely important as De Kazematten will be a significant player in the local area.
Since the auditorium and rehearsal rooms will be used by various parties, flexibility is also a key word to be kept in mind in the design of this theatre centre.
The non-profit organisation De Kazematten aims to carry out an integral project. This means that the programme of requirements, the socio-economic aspects, sustainability, the environmental-planning context and the consultation with the various parties involved require optimal spatial interpretation. The project must serve as an example in the areas of accessibility, flexibility and sustainability.

Overall fee: minimum 10%, maximum 11%