The Berlage

Starting from a precise reading of existing land, the projects of Bureau Bas Smets reveal a landscape that is visible but yet unseen. These projects vary in scale from territorial visions to infrastructural landscapes, from large parks to private gardens, from city centers to film sets. They are considered part of an all-encompassing research into the possible roles landscape projects can play in a changing climate. The aim is to invent “augmented landscapes,” by using the logics of nature. These augmented landscapes create a more resilient environment; while, at the same time, producing exciting atmospheres for their visitors and inhabitants. Bas Smets has a background in landscape architecture, civil engineering, and architecture. 

Bas Smets has a background in landscape architecture, civil engineering and architecture. He founded his office in Brussels in 2007 and has since constructed projects in more than 12 countries with his team of 17 architects and landscape architects. Starting from a precise reading of the existing land, his projects reveal a landscape, visible but yet unseen. These projects vary in scale from territorial visions to infrastructural landscapes, from large parks to private gardens, from city centres to film sets. His realised projects include the 10-hectare park of Thurn & Taxis in Brussels, the Himara Waterfront in Albania, the landscape along the new motorway between the ports of Antwerp and Zeebruges, the memorial for the victims of the terror attacks in Brussels of 22/3, the Sunken Garden and the Mandrake hotel both located in London. Bas Smets received a Master’s degree in Architecture and Civil Engineering from the University of Leuven and a Postgraduate qualification in Landscape Architecture from the University of Geneva. He regularly lectures at international institutions, such as the Harvard University Graduate School of Design and the EPF in Lausanne.