The project, a result of an Open Call by the Flemish Government Architect for the redevelopment of the public domain at Antwerp's Zuiderdokken, has once again garnered international acclaim. Previously, it received the Green Cities Europe Award 2025 and the Flemish Prize for Public Space 2025, and was nominated for the Wivina Demeester Prize 2025.
The urban development project, designed by ADR architectes, Georges Descombes, and Tractebel Engineering, triumphed over three other projects from Italy and Spain in the final round. This biennial European award for the design and transformation of public space received nearly 400 submissions from 38 countries this year. A jury selected 25 projects from cities such as Paris, Copenhagen, and Barcelona, all demonstrating a strong commitment to nature-based solutions, the reuse of existing infrastructure, and universal accessibility.
Following a further selection based on urban integration, environmental friendliness, and strict application of design principles, four finalists were chosen: Zuidpark in Antwerp, Parco della Pace in Vicenza (Italy), Plaça de les Glòries Catalanes in Barcelona, and Baños en la Rotonda in Logroño (Spain). Ultimately, Zuidpark secured the top honor in this European prize for urban public space.
“"Zuidpark has transformed a parking lot on the old docks of Antwerp into a green lung in the city. The design integrates biodiversity, restores the water cycle, and creates new neighborhood spots where residents can sit and spend time."
Alderman for urban development Patrick Janssens highlighted the transformation from the former parking lot: ‘It is almost unimaginable that this was once just a large, free parking area, except when the Sinksenfoor fair was held. Zuidpark has truly become an integral part of city life in a short time. Children play in the playgrounds, runners incorporate it into their routes, and residents gather there. It's wonderful to see how a place that used to be mostly cobblestones has evolved into a park that Antwerp residents enjoy visiting and spending time in. This international award is a fitting recognition of that metamorphosis.’
