The Palace, once a dance hall and cinema, is transforming into a center where three youth organizations - De Stroate, De Stroom, and Quindo - will collaborate. The site, dating back to 1922, retains its heritage with respect for the past, including the oval balcony shape referencing the original dance hall.
This project marks a milestone in the redevelopment of Zwevegemsestraat, initiated in 2006. The site now includes housing, commercial spaces, youth infrastructure, and public areas, with the Palace serving as a shared base for the youth organizations.
De Stroate is Flanders' first hip-hop center, De Stroom organizes leisure activities for young people with disabilities, and Quindo is a youth media lab. They share facilities to foster cross-pollination and collaboration.
Felix De Clerck, alderman for Youth, emphasizes that professional youth work deserves a full place in the city and that the Palace will be a space where young people get opportunities and can connect.
The construction process faced challenges such as concrete rot, the COVID-19 pandemic, and rising building costs. The unexpected death of architect Filip Cnockaert in April 2025 was a significant blow.
Wout Maddens, alderman for Urban Renewal, calls the opening an ode to architect Filip Cnockaert and the completion of a project started in 2006, with an investment of 1,271,399 euros for the second phase.
Melissa Depraetere, Flemish Minister of Youth, highlights the importance of investing in youth infrastructure and spaces where young people can be themselves and develop.
Architectural firm CKA+ designed the renovated Palace, focusing on acoustics, sustainability, and accessibility. Street art, such as the facade artwork by Kymo One, is prominently featured.
The Palace is a link in the urban renewal of Zwevegemsestraat, which is transforming into a vibrant gateway to the city center.
The official opening takes place in the presence of Minister Melissa Depraetere, the involved organizations, and numerous partners, marking a new chapter for this historic location in Kortrijk.
