Cohousing Bijgaardehof

Cohousing Bijgaardehof is a collective housing project located in Sint-Amandsberg in Ghent, Belgium. The project, which was completed in April 2022, transformed the former Malmarsite industrial site into three large collective living projects consisting of 59 housing units and a neighborhood health center. The three residential groups - De Spore, Wijgaard, and Biotope - collaborated with the architectural firm Bogdan & Van Broeck and sogent, the city development company, to develop a master plan and three buildings within the site. This collaborative effort allowed residents and users to create a unique living space in the city. Each cohousing project within Bijgaardehof offers residents their own apartment with shared communal spaces such as a large kitchen and dining area, a playroom, a hobby and craft room, a meeting and workspace, a laundry room, and a garden. The residents see cohousing as the future of living due to its ecological approach towards reducing environmental impact, consumption, and fostering a sense of community living while respecting privacy. The project aims to promote sustainable living and a more socially connected lifestyle. The three distinct residential groups within Bijgaardehof - Wijgaard, Biotope, and De Spore - cater to different demographics and preferences. Wijgaard focuses on providing space for communal activities and work areas, emphasizing a sustainable work-life balance. Biotope prioritizes ecological living, affordability, inclusivity, and integration with the local community. De Spore, the smallest group, values neighborhood interaction, shared outdoor spaces, and a balance between community and privacy. Additionally, a neighborhood health center, Wijkgezondheidscentrum Kapellenberg, is integrated into the site to serve the residents and the surrounding area. The architectural planning of Bijgaardehof maintained the industrial character of the site while incorporating contemporary design elements. The project established a strong relationship with the surrounding environment and received approval for construction in 2018. Construction officially commenced in 2019, led by the main contractor Strabag. The project's focus on circular design principles, community engagement, and neighborhood involvement underscores its commitment to sustainable and inclusive urban living.