Hippodrome
In September 2015, demolition began on the old Waregem Koerse grandstand. One year later, the new grandstand opened, designed to provide 3,500 spectators with an unforgettable sporting experience. The building covers a total area of 7,500 m² and offers multipurpose spaces that can be used for a wide range of events.
The second floor will house a visitors’ center for the city of Waregem, with the theme “The Horse in WWI.” On the panoramic rooftop, there will be a restaurant, offering visitors both dining and a stunning view.
The open stairwell serves as a central meeting point, a place for meet & greets, and is all about seeing and being seen. This hub connects the two wings of the building, which extend over four floors and are gently curved to follow the horse racing track, enhancing spectator interaction.
The architecture pays homage to the elegant hippodrome style of the early 20th century. Although the structure is primarily concrete, the slender steel terraces give the building a festive and light feel, reminiscent of the classic grandeur of a traditional hippodrome.