MADE IN LIMBURG

Venice falls for unique concept by Ceyssens

Author: Kurt Meers

“During the opening ceremony of the prestigious exhibition at Palazzo Mora (Venice), the architectural residential concept Periscope was presented. The futuristic design by the Belgian Metamorphic Art Studio can rely on the execution by Limburg companies such as Group Ceyssens and Energreen. The scale model was made by Formando.

Periscope is an architectural project characterized by its innovative and especially sustainable nature. The design, conceived by Metamorphic Art Studio and created by the architect couple Xaveer Claerhout and Barbara Van Biervliet, starts from a static underground building surrounded by dynamically rising and falling mirrors. Dirk Ceyssens will ensure this. Solar panels, supplied by Energreen (G&D from Tongeren), provide the telescopic pillars with the necessary energy to raise the mirror structure above ground in the morning. The so-called ‘gravity energy’ released when the mirrors descend is converted back into reusable energy via generators.

Dirk Ceyssens speaks passionately about their contribution to the project. “Periscope is much more than a construction technique to me. It is a high-level architectural language that brings spaces to life through light, reflection, and sensory experience. What fascinates me here is the power to make people look at their environment in a completely different way. By working with mirrors, glass, and smart orientations, we can literally change the perspective. This way, we realize ideas that may seem impossible at first glance. It is incredibly motivating to see how our team creates such unique projects. Projects that are not only functional but also evoke wonder. That passion for innovation is what it’s all about for me.”

The exhibited model in Venice, made by the Genk-based company of Robin Houben, Formando, was the highlight at the opening of the exhibition, which runs until the end of November this year.”