Pioneering Flemish architect Bob Van Reeth dies at 82

Renowned Belgian architect Bob Van Reeth, the first to hold the title of Flemish Government Architect (Vlaams Bouwmeester), has died at the age of 82.

Born in Temse, Van Reeth studied architecture in Brussels and became one of the most influential designers of his generation. In 1982 he founded the Antwerp-based firm AWG (Architecten Werk Groep), through which he realised a series of striking projects.

Among his most recognised works are the black-and-white striped Van Roosmalen House and the Zuiderterras pavilion on the Antwerp quays, the floating theatre boat De Ark, the redevelopment of the King Baudouin Stadium in Brussels, and the Kazerne Dossin museum in Mechelen.

In 1998, then-minister Wivina Demeester appointed him as the first Flemish Government Architect. During two terms in office, Van Reeth introduced the “Open Call” procedure, aimed at raising the quality of public building projects by encouraging competition among architects. The role has since become a cornerstone of Flemish architectural policy.

Even in retirement, living in the coastal town of De Haan, Van Reeth remained outspoken about urban development. As recently as two years ago, he criticised large-scale Antwerp projects such as Nieuw Zuid and the planned renovation of the Boerentoren tower.

^{#FlandersNewsService | Architect Bob Van Reeth during the official inauguration of his project Kazerne Dossin, a Holocaust memorial centre © BELGA PHOTO CHRISTOPHE KETELS}