"At a time when affordable housing, resource scarcity and social fragmentation are pressing challenges across Europe, we believe the existing city is one of our most valuable resources. Its buildings, materials and social networks all hold potential for the future."
Across 18 plots, the project transformed neglected rear extensions and gardens into a new shared street frontage and communal green space. More than 1,000m² of reclaimed bricks and roof tiles were reused throughout. Through conversations with residents, the architects gained a deeper understanding of local needs and experiences, helping to inform adaptable housing layouts that support contemporary living, from multi-generational households to home working.
Ana Castillo and Lieven De Groote, co-founders of MAKER Architecten, said:
"We are honoured that MAKER has been recognised with the RIBA International Emerging Architect 2026 award. YIMBY explores how small-scale interventions can contribute to a larger transformation of the city.
Rather than replacing what exists, we sought to reveal and build on its potential: increasing housing density, reusing bricks and roof tiles on site, opening neglected spaces and introducing flexible housing typologies that respond to changing family structures and ways of living.
YIMBY is an attempt to work with that potential, creating new value without erasing the stories embedded in the place."
YIMBY was commissioned by SW+, with the involvement of the City of Kortrijk. MAKER architects collaborated with Mouton on the structural analysis. Boydens, part of Sweco, was responsible for the technical installations, and Artes Group acted as the contractor.
MAKER Architecten
Founded in Ghent in 2019 by Ana Castillo and Lieven De Groote, MAKER Architecten has established an international profile for its research-led approach to circular renovation, material reuse and socio-spatial adaptability. Rather than treating existing urban neighbourhoods as disposable, the practice views buildings as evolving material banks, choosing selective deconstruction and reuse of materials over demolition. Their work addresses the critical challenges of urban design, upgrading homes and lowering carbon emissions whilst preserving heritage and strengthening community.
RIBA International Emerging Architect Award
This award recognises those who have been practising for 10 years or less and are making a significant contribution to the field of international architecture.
"RIBA International Awards reflect the breadth and ambition of contemporary architecture at its best, through globally diverse work united by a shared commitment to improving how people live. Across sustainability, community-building and cultural identity, architects are responding in inventive and often unexpected ways, and the winners offer a compelling snapshot of where the discipline is heading."
Chris Williamson, RIBA President