| Project Id |
3344 |
| Project Name |
Pianofabriek, Belgium |
| Description |
The current building was erected in 1898 on behalf of the German Gunther family, a family of piano builders who settled in Brussels in 1845. The pianos Gunther had a big name throughout Europe but also beyond. This by applying a number of technical innovations. They were among the first to produce high-quality pianos with a metal frame, and later through the cross-fitting "cordes croisées" of the strings they obtained a specific sound that made them win various prizes. After the second world war, the name Gunther and the factory were bought by the Vanderelst family, a family of piano tuners.Fortstraat was the factory, the stock site and the point of sale of mainly used pianos. The company was among the largest piano builders and repairers in Europe. In the peak years, more than 100 people worked and more than 100 pianos were sold per month. During the eight years that pianos were made, more than 200 pianos were built each year. The case was abandoned in 1997. |
| Description of the economic, social and environmental impacts of the project |
Pianofabriek is complementary with the existing cultural offer and at the initiative of the city makers. It is neighborhood oriented with a metropolitan and international perspective. It supports projects with innovative and creative character and gives opportunities to individuals and groups. It is a community center, a city lab for super diversity, education and training employment center and arts workshop at the same time. Its strength is related to entrepreneurship, inclusive bottom-up initiatives and eco-friendly way of work. |
| Web links |
http://www.pianofabriek.be/?lang=nl |
| Country |
Belgium |
| City size |
Metropolis (between 1 and 10 million people) |
