Berlin International was honoured to host a lecture by Mathieu Moreau, featuring the renowned Brussels-based architecture and urbanism practice, 51N4E. Known for their interdisciplinary approach, 51N4E operates at the intersection of architecture, interior design, adaptive reuse, landscape, and urban planning. Their work exemplifies a commitment to transformation, often engaging with existing structures and contexts to create meaningful public spaces.
The lecture presents two significant projects in Brussels, each illustrating the firm’s ability to navigate complex, long-term urban developments. One project showcased the evolution from a comprehensive masterplan to the realization of multiple buildings, integrating landscape and public spaces over a decade-long process. These case studies provided students with valuable insights into the multifaceted nature of architectural practice, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and interdisciplinary collaboration.
51N4E’s innovative work has received international recognition, including the 2018 European Prize for Urban Public Space for their redesign of Skanderbeg Square in Tirana, Albania. They were also finalists for the 2019 Mies van der Rohe Award, underscoring their impact on contemporary European architecture.
This inspiring presentation offered our students a profound understanding of the challenges and opportunities inherent in urban transformation, highlighting the role of architecture in shaping dynamic and inclusive public realms.
