Gent De Krook

What makes De Krook photogenic

De Krook is the city library of Gent, designed by the firm Mecanoo together with Gent-based RCR Architects. The building opened in 2017 on the Miriam Makebaplein, close to the Schelde. What makes it interesting for architectural photography is the combination of a clean, repetitive facade of corten steel and glass with a transparent base. From the outside the building reads as a compact, industrial box, but the moment you step inside that impression changes completely.

The interior has an open atrium spanning multiple floors, with balustrades, staircases and sightlines that constantly overlap one another. As a photographer that gives you a lot to work with: converging lines, people on different levels, and light falling in through large window sections.

Light and timing

During the day the light in the atrium is at its most interesting. In the morning and early afternoon direct light reaches the upper floors while the lower levels remain somewhat in shadow. That contrast is useful. On overcast days the light is more even, which works well if you want the architecture itself to take centre stage without distracting shadows. The exterior facade is best photographed in the late afternoon, when the light gives the corten-coloured panels a warm tone.

Composition and focal length

Outside, I prefer a wide field of view, 24mm or 28mm on full frame, so you capture the full height of the facade. Pay attention to the lines of the facade and the angle you are standing at: the building has sharp corners you can play off against the sky. Inside, a slightly longer focal length can be useful for picking up details, but for the atrium as a whole a wide angle works just as well. People in the building add scale and life, but in Belgium you need permission for recognisable portraits in public spaces if you intend to use them commercially.

Practical

De Krook is freely accessible during opening hours. Photography for personal use is permitted, but if you are unsure, ask at the front desk. The easiest parking is near Sint-Pietersstation or on the other side of the Schelde. The Miriam Makebaplein itself is wide enough to photograph the building from a distance without having to walk far.

Sources and further reading

• De Krook – officiële website
• Mecanoo architecten – projectpagina De Krook
• Stad Gent – De Krook