A striking blue feature in Ghent: the new Waterkant pavilion stands out in WoodCream Navy Blue

A new pavilion has recently been built on the Blaarmeersen in Ghent, and it certainly catches the eye. This vibrant building beautifully connects the water, the playground and the landscape, but naturally stands out thanks to its striking blue façade. The project was also immediately nominated for the Belgian Construction Awards.
 

Protection with Rubio Monocoat WoodCream

The bright blue façade is made of FSC-certified Platowood pine and was inspired by a Swedish canoe trip. The façade was finished with WoodCream in the colour Navy Blue. This protects the wood with a water-repellent and self-cleaning effect, ensuring the building’s appearance is preserved for the long term. The colour also matches the window frames perfectly, creating a harmonious whole. The result is an accessible meeting place where families, sports enthusiasts and visitors come together.

Eco-friendly timber construction

Waterkant is a prime example of sustainable architecture based on timber construction. The old building was replaced by a structure made of CLT (cross-laminated timber), enabling the shell to be completed in just three weeks and ensuring the pavilion is also energy-neutral. Timber construction is a highly sustainable form of building: the CO₂ in the timber remains stored, and the CLT panels require far less energy to produce than traditional building materials such as concrete. This project therefore fits perfectly with the sustainable and circular ambitions of the City of Ghent.
 

Project details

• Location: Blaarmeersen, Ghent
• Architects: STUDIOBONT + aAD
• Contractor: Woema
• Timber supplier: Eurabo – Read more here
• Construction: CLT timber construction
• Cladding: Platowood spruce
• Finish: Rubio Monocoat WoodCream - Navy Blue
• Nominated for: Belgian Construction Awards in the Urban Development & Infrastructure category