LE PIETONNIER

Maria, while working as an architect at SumProject+SumResearch, closely collaborated with the graphic department of the City of Brussels in finalizing the photorealistic drawing of the Pietonier project. Additionally, she contributed to the creation of a short film aimed at presenting and explaining the urban project to the citizens of Brussels.

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The Brussels Low Line project, launched in the 1990s, prioritizes environmental and health aspects for "good urban living." Aligned with the "good move" traffic scheme, historic Central Boulevards have turned into a pedestrian and cyclist-friendly zone, departing from car-centric norms. Starting with a temporary pedestrian zone, citizens actively engaged in redevelopment. The Central Boulevards, once barriers, now serve as a central public space. In the heart of the city, a 1 km stretch of Haussmannian boulevards forms the Brussels Low Line—a Linear Urban Park with diverse functions. Transformations include De Brouckère as an 'Agora' and Fontainas as an 'open green square.' The project innovatively uses the metro tunnel for a roof garden, connecting to metro stations and adding 1,500 bike parking spaces. Addressing urban heating, the Brussels Low Line introduces greenery, diverse trees, water features, and sustainable practices like rainwater collection.

 

Maria's involvement in this project predates her architectural endeavors. Years earlier, she was part of the activist movement "Picnic The Streets," passionately advocating for the reclaiming of the city's public spaces. Explore the journey with a glimpse of the flyer Maria designed for the last Pic Nic the Street.

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