SILT: A Graceful Hub in Middelkerke’s Architectural Landscape

Leo Ten Wolde & Zwarts Jansma Architects

SILT: A Graceful Hub in Middelkerke’s Architectural Landscape

Silt, Middelkerke’s latest architectural gem, unveils its doors, marking the
culmination of over two years of meticulous construction. Crafted by the
visionary architect Leo Ten Wolde in collaboration with Zwarts Jansma
Architects from Amsterdam, Silt transcends the conventional casino paradigm.
It seamlessly integrates a bespoke event venue, a distinctive restaurant
concept, a discreet gaming area, and a four-star hotel, all nestled within a
timeless structure.

Embedded in Middelkerke’s DNA
Selected through a meticulous process, the Nautilus construction team, featuring Ciril as the developer, Zwarts Jansma (architecture), DELVA (landscape
architecture), OZ (casino and hotel design), and others, secured the project.
Mayor Jean-Marie Dedecker praised the project’s alignment with Middelkerke’s DNA – architecturally fantastic, urbanistically thoughtful, and financially sound.
The site, where Middelkerke’s first casino emerged in 1891, has evolved over the years, closing in 2017 but paving the way for a new architectural venture.

Photo credit © Jacques ALLARD

Protective Dunescape
Silt revolves around clear spatial principles, shifting the Epernaysquare towards the sea through a unique dunescape. This design enlarges public space,
fortifies the seaside, and introduces a green welcoming square on top of the dune. The new casino seamlessly integrates into the dunes, with the hotel
tower acting as a distinctive visual beacon, especially at night.

Symbiosis of Landscape, Exterior, and Interior

The building and landscape form a fluid integration of organic shapes and sustainable materials, mirroring the coastal hues.
This synergy extends into the interior, reflecting simplicity, softness, and a connection with nature in both
color schemes and lighting design.

                                 Photo credits © nautilus_consortium

Local Empowerment
Beyond its architectural prowess, Silt contributes to Middelkerke’s economic and social growth, creating a new focal point in the city center. Mayor Dedecker
anticipates the casino becoming a catalyst for tourism and local businesses.

Expanding Horizons
Silt introduces new space, doubling the area for pedestrians and cyclists while offering underground parking for easy access.
The project extends beyond the casino, housing a diverse range of leisure functions, including an event venue, a four-star hotel, and Taste
Silt, a unique gastronomic concept restaurant.

                                 Photo credits © nautilus_consortium

In Conclusion
Silt, more than just a casino, stands as a testament to architectural finesse, historical homage, and community development. Its name, inspired by the
sediment that binds various elements, symbolizes its role as a unifying force in Middelkerke’s maritime surroundings

For more information of SILT Middelkerke: www.silt.be

Architects: Leo Ten Wolde & Zwarts Jansma Architects
Photo credits © nautilus_consortium
Photo credits © Jacques ALLARD
This article was published in the 2024 Archi-News Printed magazine. edition nr 56