C-mine Expeditie
C-mine expeditie is the winning design for an underground ‘experience-zone’ on the former mining site of winterslag near Genk. The project is part of a series of reconversions and extensions aiming to reorganize the old mining site into the cultural heart of the city of Genk. The concept is based on the contrast in experience between on the one hand the enclosed and disorienting spatial conditions underground and on the other handthe crystalclear panoramic view on top of the headframe. The project scans the specific spatial conditions of the existing structures, remains of a vibrant mining past, while generating new meaning; a variation of artistic and spatial interventions and free-standing elements in a scenographic trail. The headframe, a protected monument, is made accessible to the large public through a challenging, adventurous and structuring narrative. Its functional access is made out of three unique structural staircase systems: stacking, hanging and cantilevering.
Location: C-mine 10, 3600 Genk
program: Exploration Trail in Former Coal Mine Tunnels
completion: april 2012
surface: +/- 2.350 sq m
budget: 5.000.000 €