New life is being breathed into the historic basement spaces of the former Baertsoen-Buysse textile factory in Gent, creating a vibrant hub for creative and community activities. This redevelopment highlights how heritage buildings can be transformed to meet modern needs while preserving their unique character. On 2025-05-31 17:00:00, locals and visitors alike can witness how these renovated spaces are shaping the city’s cultural landscape.
- Renovate historic Baertsoen-Buysse factory cellars
- Transform space into creative ateliers and events
- Invest three million euros by Siklos Invest
- Preserve heritage with sustainable infrastructure solutions
- Share resources among entrepreneurs and event organizers
- Reuse factory elements like lamps and floor tiles
The former showroom, now known as Fabrika, has already been repurposed into offices and an event hall. But it is the recently renovated 19th-century cellars that are drawing attention, housing a ceramics studio, dance school, bicycle repair shop, and a new event venue. This innovative project by Siklos Invest involved a €3 million investment, demonstrating a strong commitment to urban renewal in Gent’s Dendermondsesteenweg area.
How can such projects balance preserving history with sustainability? And what does this mean for local entrepreneurs and the community? Let’s explore the exciting transformation and what it offers.
This redevelopment raises important questions about the role of heritage in modern city life. How do developers maintain authenticity while adapting to new uses? Key highlights include:
- Shared infrastructure supports both creative entrepreneurs and small-scale event organisers.
- Historic elements like factory lamps and old signage have been preserved, maintaining a tangible link to the past.
- Sustainability is central, with solar energy, rainwater reuse, and energy-efficient heating systems integrated.
- Opportunities remain for new tenants, ensuring ongoing community engagement and economic vitality.
Looking ahead, this initiative sets a benchmark for future heritage renovations across Belgium. Interested entrepreneurs and event organisers are encouraged to explore the remaining spaces, contributing to Gent’s dynamic cultural revival and sustainable urban future.
