Bob Van Reeth Biography
Childhood
Bob Van Reeth was born on February 26, 1943, in Temse, Belgium. He was raised in the nearby town of Niel. From a young age, Van Reeth showed an interest that would later develop into a profound architectural career. He pursued formal studies in architecture at Sint-Lucas in Brussels, setting the foundation for his future contributions to Flemish architecture.
Career
Starting his architectural practice in 1965, Bob Van Reeth began designing buildings primarily in Mechelen and Kalmthout. In 1972, besides becoming a teacher at the National Higher Institute for Architecture in Antwerp, he co-founded the group Krokus, together with Jean-Paul Laenen and Marcel Smets, focusing on the restoration of Mechelen's old city center. His architectural philosophy emphasized living and working patterns over fixed stylistic forms, believing that buildings should adapt over time as "intelligent ruins."
Van Reeth's notable projects include the design of a building for the Onze-Lieve-Vrouwecollege in Antwerp during the 1980s, and later works such as a wing for the Westvleteren Abbey in 2007 and the striking black-and-white Huis Van Roosmalen overlooking the Scheldt River. He also designed the café-restaurant Zuiderterras on Antwerp’s quays.
In 1982, he founded the architectural firm AWG (Architecten Werk Groep) which led several important projects, including the winning design for the memorial and documentation center on the Holocaust in Mechelen. In 1998, Van Reeth became the very first Flemish Government Architect, a position he held until 2005. During his tenure, he initiated the "Open Call" procedure to elevate the quality of public building projects through competitive design selection. His career spanned over five decades, earning him influence and respect in architectural circles both in Belgium and internationally.
Current Family Life
Bob Van Reeth spent his later years living in the coastal town of De Haan, where he remained vocal about urban development even after retirement. Although detailed public information about his family life is limited, his lasting legacy in architecture continues to honor his influence. He passed away recently on September 30, 2025, leaving behind a profound cultural and architectural inheritance in Flanders and beyond.
Bob Van Reeth Summary
Bob Van Reeth was a visionary Belgian architect known for his thoughtful approach to architecture centered on human living patterns and adaptability of buildings. Emerging from Temse and trained in Brussels, his extensive career shaped many significant Flemish landmarks and urban projects. As the first Flemish Government Architect, he played a key role in fostering excellence in public architecture. His work demonstrated a blend of historical sensitivity and modern functionality, securing his reputation as a pioneer in the field. Van Reeth's influence continues to inspire architectural practice and education in Belgium and Europe.