Revive guides Vynckier into its next phase with new owners
Property developer Revive is taking the next step in the development of the Vynckier site in Ghent. Parts of the former industrial site are being transferred to new owners who are already closely connected to the site. Kompass Klub, which started out there as a temporary use, is now establishing a permanent presence on the site and will be joined by La Roy Event Creators, while ABC continues to expand its existing activities. Revive will remain the owner of approximately 5,500 m² for the time being.
The transfer marks a new phase for Vynckier, while also illustrating a less conventional approach to area development. Rather than adhering to a single predetermined end vision, Revive has spent the past few years creating space for temporary uses and new users. What emerged on the site and proved to work well is now helping to shape its further development.
“Not every complex urban redevelopment project requires a definitive end vision from the outset. Sometimes, the right direction emerges by bringing a place back into use, observing what works and then giving space to parties that can build on it. That, too, is area development. This step was not part of the original plan, but it is rooted in the same principles.”
From temporary use to a permanent presence
Since Revive acquired the Vynckier site, part of the buildings has been opened up for temporary activities. Entrepreneurs, makers, cultural organisations and other users have brought activity back to an industrial site that had been largely inaccessible for many years. “This approach has been part of the way Revive has dealt with complex sites from the outset. Temporary uses are more than just a way of bridging a transition period: they make a place accessible again, while also revealing which functions, users and dynamics could grow there over the longer term,” says Sofie Verstraete.
At Vynckier, this temporary dynamic is now becoming partly permanent. Kompass Klub is evolving from a successful temporary use into an established presence on the site and will have the opportunity to further develop its activities there. ABC, which is already based at Vynckier, is also expanding its activities.
Developing without developing everything itself
The new phase means that Revive will not itself deliver the original development scenario. This also changes the role of the developer: alongside acting as initiator and developer, Revive is taking on the role of director and facilitator of a development that will be carried forward by several different parties.
The direction may be changing, but the principles behind the project remain intact: reactivating existing heritage, preserving valuable buildings and enabling new uses within the existing urban fabric. Revive is facilitating the transition to the new ownership structure and will, for the time being, remain the owner of approximately 5,500 m². New complementary partners are now being sought for this prominent waterfront location, with opportunities for manufacturing, offices and commercial uses.
“A developer’s impact does not necessarily have to lie solely in what they ultimately build themselves. It can also come from reactivating a place, creating the right conditions and then giving other parties the space to build on that foundation. For us, Vynckier is a strong example of this.”