The Vaartkom district in Leuven tells a fascinating story of transformation. Once an industrial hub filled with breweries, malt houses, mills, and factories, it has reinvented itself into one of the city’s most vibrant neighbourhoods. At the heart of this revival stands OPEK (Openbaar Entrepot voor de Kunsten)—the Public Entrepot for the Arts—a creative hotspot that breathes new life into the city’s cultural scene.
From Industry to Creativity
The origins of the Vaartkom date back to 1750, when Austrian Governor Charles Alexander of Lorraine began the construction of the canal to Mechelen. This waterway became Leuven’s economic lifeline, attracting breweries like Den Hoorn (later Stella Artois), metal companies, mills, and eventually the iconic Marie Thumas cannery.
After World War II, the industrial landscape declined, leaving behind a mix of run-down buildings and emerging modern projects. Today, the area is a striking contrast between protected heritage like De Hoorn and modern architectural landmarks such as the Balk van Beel apartment complex and the upcoming transformation of the Artois brewery’s silos into 200 stylish flats.
The Birth of OPEK
At the centre of this transformation is the Public Entrepot, once a customs warehouse for goods in transit. Built in 1956 by Leuven architect Victor Broos, this modernist building was protected as heritage and reimagined in 2010 by the architectural firm TJonck Nilis. The result was OPEK, a multifunctional arts complex that became a true cultural anchor for Leuven.
Today, OPEK houses:
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Het Nieuwstedelijk and fABULEUS, leading city theatre companies
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Five theatre halls
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Studios, rehearsal rooms, and meeting spaces
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A unique performing arts hall built from straw and clay—a European first
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And a lively café, the perfect spot to soak in the creative atmosphere
A Neighbourhood of Contrast and Community
Surrounding OPEK, the Vaartkom continues to evolve. Modern apartments sit beside repurposed industrial sites, while Sluis Park offers a riverside green space with a water playground for families.
Why Visit OPEK and the Vaartkom
The Vaartkom is more than an urban redevelopment project—it’s a living example of how a city can balance heritage, creativity, and modern life.
Source: Eric.
