Supermarket in Liège

MDW Architecture & H+G Architects’ design for a supermarket in Liège goes beyond the mere cosmetic upgrade of the decorated shed, trying to weave the existing urban fabric.

Programmes of this type are notorious for producing mundane buildings – devoid of interest at best, and often outright urbicide. MDW Architecture & H+G Architects’ vision goes beyond the mere cosmetic upgrade of the decorated shed, asking: how can the designers of a supermarket quietly succeed in weaving part of the urban fabric?

Situated in the middle of an elongated 180m long and largely paved city block, the project aims to improve the quality and permeability of the site, both for users of the building and for residents of the area. In order to create a new public pedestrian crossing which splits the block, the existing building – which was due for demolition – is relocated to the edge of the plot. The new building helps to upscale a difficult zone, enclosed between high party walls.

Facades are marked by a series of pleats which enliven pedestrian routes along the alleyway. Wood is used throughout the project, from structure to facade. Beside its reduced impact in terms of grey energy, the choice of this eco-responsible material is also motivated by its ability to create a building that is visually lighter, easily adaptable and/or recyclable. Cedar cladding, with variable rhythmic scansions and its warm materiality, offers an additional antidote to the mineral surfaces of the block.