Towards a new rurality?

The Belgian countryside is currently undergoing a significant transition towards a new dynamic, calling into question the traditional vision of rurality. In the current context, marked by the decline of agriculture and the emergence of new economies, it is necessary to reconsider the architectural approach. The pandemic of 2021 has also highlighted the growing appeal of teleworking combined with the proximity of open spaces, reinforcing the interest in rural areas. Architecture, urban planning and landscape are set to play a central role in influencing the structure and quality of life in (post-)rural areas. Architectural interventions have a significant impact on the spatial organisation of villages, surrounding landscapes and local social networks, requiring a considered and responsible approach. Moreover, rural areas are crucial in managing societal transitions to mitigate climate change and adapt food production.

In this way, the future rural architecture is accompanied by increased responsibility and could pave the way for new practices and readings the territory.

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The book Architectures Wallonie-Bruxelles Inventaires # Inventories 2020-23 entitled 'Towards a regenerative approach to architecture' published in 2023 by ICA, presents a series of architectural, landscape and urban planning projects that illustrate this new paradigm of rurality. The Temps d'Archi #10 : Towards a new rurality ? aims to raise awareness of both the specific nature of rural areas in Wallonia and the architectural approaches emerging from the Inventories, which are capable of developing their territory in a more qualitative way. The book highlights the spatial issues in rural areas and aims to provide answers, as well as discovering new ideas and sustainable ways of living together in the countryside.

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This summer, the ICA team is offering guided tours and free architectural walks to help you discover Wallonia's rural areas and inspiring contemporary architectural approaches. Five guided tours will focus on the challenges of space in rural areas and provide answers, while inviting you to discover new ideas and sustainable ways of living together in the countryside. Designed as opportunities for discovery, exchange and discussion, the guided tours will be led by the architects in charge of the projects visited and members of ICA. 

This autumn, ICA invites you to continue the discussion on the challenges of rurality and related spatial considerations, at a series of meetings / table rondes organised with our partners: Maison de l'Urbanisme Famenne-Ardenne, Maison de l'Urbanisme du Brabant-Wallon, Musée Archéologique d'Arlon and Recyclart in Brussels. With the support of the Cellule d'Architecture.