Wilgenhof social housing Willebroek

Along the Ringlaan, on the southern edge of Willebroek, META is realising the Wilgenhof project: a contemporary residential ensemble for social housing. Outdated, scattered buildings are replaced by three compact volumes comprising a total of 36 modular housing units. Densification is used as a tool to create space for high-quality greenery and openness on the site.

The three buildings are positioned at a 45° angle to the Ringlaan. This orientation creates deep visual connections across the site, avoids direct overlooking between the volumes, and allows the area to be permeable for soft mobility. The result is a clear spatial structure with a strong relationship between the street and the inner domain.

The design is based on a single base module, organised per floor according to a pinwheel principle around a central circulation core. This compact configuration results in an efficient and energy-conscious building volume, with a central stair and lift core fully contained within the thermal envelope. The modular structure enables a rational construction process and limits exceptions during execution.

Each housing unit is conceived as a corner apartment with dual orientation. Living spaces benefit from ample daylight, varied views, and an enhanced sense of privacy. No dwelling is exclusively north-facing, and all residents have access to an external terrace that provides comfort and a sense of enclosure.

The façade design also follows the modular logic, using prefabricated brick panels, generous window openings, and a restrained material palette. Collective functions such as entrance areas, technical rooms, and bicycle storage are integrated at ground level. The result is a flexible, sustainable, and legible housing project in which efficiency and residential quality go hand in hand.

This project was developed within the framework contract for modular social housing in timber construction, in which META strengthens the team of CIT Blaton and Aché Terra.