The jet set seaside resort of Knokke-Heist has unveiled plans for the revamped Casino-Kursaal on the Promenade. As much as possible, architects want to restore the building to its 1929 grandeur, with respect for its history, but also with a brand-new modern section that will largely be underground.
Some time ago, Knokke-Heist announced a competition for the renovation of the Casino-Kursaal on the seafront. Some 26 proposals were sent in. In the event, the design by an international team including three architectural firms, from Barcelona, Paris and Ghent, was chosen.
In the winning design, the casino building, dating from 1929, will be rebuilt with respect for what the original architect, Léon Stynen, had in mind. In the northern part, on the seafront, the large glass façade should again provide more connection between the inside of the building and the sea just in front of it.
On the southern side of the building, the Magritte Room continues to play a central role. This is the hall where you can admire "The Enchanted Empire", a mural by René Magritte dating from 1953. The hall forms a buffer between the existing section and a new, underground wing.
That new wing, which will be built under the Canada square (honouring the town’s Canadian liberators), will house the casino itself, as well as a wine bar and a restaurant. A spacious, open courtyard should ensure that daylight can still enter the underground spaces. A sky bar on the building's roof is also planned and there is also space for a nightclub and a large exhibition space.
The renovation will also affect the Casino-Kursaal’s surroundings. There will be new water features and green spaces to ensure a smooth connection with the seafront and beach.
Price tag of €95 million
The renovation of the Casino-Kursaal includes a hefty price tag of €95 million. Works are planned to start as early as next year. It should be ready by 2030, although that could easily extend to 2032.
In a first phase, the area around the Casino-Kursaal will be tackled. Then it will be the turn of the building itself. All told, the site covers over 43,000 square metres.