The 35m³ series of micro-exhibitions, which deSingel is mounting in association with the Flemish Architecture Institute (VAi), shows a young generation of promising Belgian architects. In a volume of 35m³ (35 cubic metres), they can show their practical work, their approach, their motivations and their outlook.
The Brussels collective URA is the tenth firm to appear in the '35m³ young architecture' series. It was set up under the name U(r)-architects by Yves Malysse, Kiki Verbeeck and Joost Verstraete in 2002. They have operated under the name URA since 2006.
URA's architecture is neither spectacular nor entirely down-to-earth. It is often based strictly on the actual context and generates a distinct result from it. URA's best-known projects include 'BKA' (interior of loft, Antwerp, 2004, inspired by Hitchcock's 'Rear Window'), 'PZE' (multifunctional hall, Eeklo, 2005) and 'GVA' (2006-8, masterplan for a nature and recreation park in the Province of West Flanders).
URA places its 35m³ presentation in the context of the concurrent major exhibition 'The Wrong House'. A wall of doors divides the small exhibition space into two compartments. On one side they screen a film in which the architects perform together with an ironing board, a stool and a blanket. On the other side they show a selection of studies, photos and models.
During the 2007-8 season we shall be organising an excursion to go with each presentation. We shall visit one or more buildings, either completed or under construction, together with the architects, in a group of no more than 8 people.
Together with URA, we shall be visiting the PZA project, a multipurpose hall in Eeklo built in 2003.
Sat 22 Sept 2007 / 11 am / minibus leaves from main entrance of deSingel / book on +32 (0)3 248 28 28 / €10