The Provincial Domain Atlantikwall Raversyde is a valuable nature reserve with unique heritage from various periods. The oldest archaeologically discovered traces date back to prehistoric and Roman times. The provincial domain owes its name to the medieval, vanished fishing settlement “Walraversijde” which originally was located on the current beach. Due to storm floods, the settlement moved to the area behind the current dune belt. For various reasons, such as the Eighty Years' War, the settlement disappeared.

Although much of the rich history is still there, it is not always easy to see. To illustrate life in the lost fishing settlement, several medieval houses have been reconstructed and furnished. Archaeological research is also showcased through a replica excavation site. However, the province wants to revitalize the domain and make the settlement tangible again. Therefore, through a WinVorm design competition procedure, they sought a design team for a vision for the landscape design and visualization of the vanished fishing settlement Walraversijde to enhance the authenticity and experience value of the provincial domain.

Our proposal for the site aims for a profound integration into the historical layers. The plan goes beyond reconstruction, aiming to add both ancient expression and new layers of meaning. Four principles structure the design: fitting into the current context, revealing historical layers, emphasizing anchor points, and designing with the factor of time. A circular path, restoration of the Kalsijdegeleed, preservation of existing shrubs, and a playfield visualize historical elements. Architectural interventions and artistic additions highlight significant moments in the medieval fishing village, while the design evolves with seasons and years, embracing processes of weathering and landscape succession..

Location: Ostend, BE | Program: Vision and scenography | Year: 2023 | Client: Province of West-Flanders | Status: Competition (2nd place) | Collaboration: Fallow + Joris Kerremans + Hong Wan Chan + Daems Van Remoortere | People: Carmen Van Maercke, Jan-Uwe Lorent