Expert talk with Eva Recio Rodriguez – Circularity in the urban design of Coronmeuse

The Challenges of Circularity

Developers and project partners often lack experience with reusable materials on construction sites, as they typically opt for quick demolition. That’s why we guide them through collecting, storing, and sorting materials, ensuring circularity within the project.

 

Reusing building materials requires thoughtful decisions: gathering and sorting the right quantities and qualities, assessing structural integrity, managing logistics, and considering public perception.

 

Enhancing Sustainability with Innovative Techniques and Materials

The stackable wall, or “muret empilable”, is a versatile and ecological design. It serves as street furniture, a boundary marker, a habitat for small mammals and insects, and a support for drought-resistant plants. The wall was constructed using on-site materials, reducing the need for new resources while preserving the site’s historical heritage. Approximately 1,300 m³ of concrete pavers and tiles were reused on-site, significantly boosting the project’s circularity by reducing the demand for new raw materials and lowering environmental impact.

Did You Know?

Reused materials on-site include:

• Red and gray concrete tiles (30×30 cm)
• Existing concrete pavers
• Large concrete slabs from the site itself (70×70 cm)
• Sawn and split tree trunks
• Bundles of stacked reeds from pruned or removed vegetation

Ecological Benefits:

• Diverse materials create varied microhabitats for wildlife

Let the Water Flow

A key strategy was to maximize planted areas and create semi-permeable surfaces. This significantly improved the neighborhood’s water infiltration capacity, allowing more rainwater to seep into the ground rather than drain into the sewer system.

By restoring the local ecosystem, we leveraged the natural capabilities of vegetation and soil to manage rainwater absorption and filtration, reducing reliance on artificial drainage systems. Native plants and healthy soils help absorb and purify rainwater, lowering the need for man-made interventions.

A notable spatial intervention in the design is a slightly sunken grassland area, strategically placed to capture excess rainwater and reduce flooding risks.

Biodiversity as a Guiding Principle

Biodiversity was a core focus in the landscape plan. We aimed to create a thriving, low-maintenance environment that supports a wide range of plant and animal species. Our approach included:

• Native plants: Prioritizing indigenous species that are well-adapted to the environment, making them easier to maintain while boosting local biodiversity.
• Prairie gardens: Featuring a diverse mix of grasses, perennials, and flower bulbs, these gardens are self-regulating and require only one mowing per year, making them low-maintenance and sustainable.
• Pollinator-friendly plants: Selecting species like Calamintha nepeta and Salvia verticillata, which attract bees and butterflies, adding ecological value and natural beauty.
• Soil adaptation: Matching vegetation to site-specific soil conditions, ensuring plants thrive in both dry and wet areas with minimal intervention.
• Diverse plant species: Up to 80 different species in the prairie gardens, creating a rich and resilient ecosystem.

This approach not only enhances the landscape’s beauty but also provides habitat for local wildlife, promotes sustainability, and requires minimal maintenance. It’s a strong example of environmentally friendly landscape design.

 

Eva: “These smart design choices make the new neighborhood more than just a physical space; they enhance community connection and engagement.”

Community Well-Being as a Guiding Principle

To create an accessible space, we ensured community involvement in the process. Residential streets were designed for social interaction, with extra space for pedestrians and cyclists. The expansion of Astrid Park and additional green spaces turn the site into a lively, green area where local fauna can thrive. Residents are encouraged to care for the greenery around their homes, fostering a sense of community. The northern part of the project focuses on urban agriculture, enabling local food production and promoting a sustainable lifestyle. Public spaces feature street furniture, such as benches, waste bins, and playgrounds, making them welcoming and enjoyable for everyone. Additionally, we created four activity centers with schools, childcare facilities, and shops, seamlessly integrating the neighborhood into the broader community.

Before and After: A Revitalized Urban Space

Recent transformations at Astrid Park, Pointe Atlas, and Vers la Meuse have significantly enhanced the ecological and social character of the area. Green spaces have been expanded, new parks have been developed, and public areas have become more accessible, making Coronmeuse a sustainable and inclusive neighborhood. With the development of urban spaces and improved connectivity, Coronmeuse is now firmly embedded in the city. This vibrant center demonstrates how sustainability and community spirit can go hand in hand, offering a living environment that elevates the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.