City Pavilion Ghent

The multifunctional and open city pavilion is an architectural masterpiece designed by the world-known architects Robbrecht & Daem in collaboration with Marie-José Van Hee. The roof structure and the use of glass, wood and concrete is very striking. There are 1,400 windows in the walls and roofs, which allow natural light to seep through. Mainly in the evening, this place is gorgeous. I love to stand under the hall and see how the roof of the pavilion turns into a playful lighting effect. I have attended several concerts, dance performances and markets here, and by renovating this spot, the architects were able to integrate the existing art elements such as the Minne sculptures and the Mathildis clock.

The small city park on the lower level is the place I head to when I'm looking to relax, read or simply hang out. Stairs and ramps connect the park with the street levels higher up. Through the diagonal walking paths you easily reach the Donkersteeg with the Mageleinstraat and Cataloniëstraat, one of my favourite streets to shop and enjoy a stroll.