Film │ Inspiration Renovation

From circus to garage
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In the 19th century, specific buildings for entertainment appeared in many cities, including stone circuses. Ghent also followed this international trend. In 1885 the so-called ‘New Cirkus’ was built, to a design by architect Emile De Weerdt. The building, initially designed as a horse racecourse with an accompanying ballroom, was finally inaugurated as a stone circus, where numerous companies gave performances, even in winter.

In 1920, the building was ravaged by a fierce fire. Only a few parts, such as some outer walls, the stables and the riding school remained standing. These parts were recovered during the construction of the new circus in 1923, according to the design of architect Jules-Pascal Ledoux.

Shortly after World War II the Winter Circus was transformed into the garage of Ghislain Mahy. During this transformation, the entire circus interior was lost. It was replaced by a completely new concrete construction with an extensive system of ramps, which allowed cars to drive all the way to the top. In 1978, the garage closed its doors and served as a depot for vintage cars for another two decades. After that, the building was virtually empty.

Sogent bought it in 2005 and started the renovation plans. It will be finished in 2022.
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Rietveld Films puts remarkable buildings in the picture. This is not a Rietveld project!
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