Huib Hoste and modernism in Wervik

As an architect and urban planner appointed by the High Commission for Reconstruction, Huib Hoste was responsible for the reconstruction of Zonnebeke, Wervik, Geluwe, Geluveld, and Beselare. In several other municipalities in Southwestern Flanders, including Diksmuide and Roeselare, he was previously involved in the reconstruction on a more informal basis. As a progressive reconstruction architect, Hoste brought modernity to the front-line region following the severe destruction of World War I.
For Wervik, Hoste was commissioned by the government to draw up the building lines and site plans. He restored the street pattern and took the opportunity to propose widening several historic streets. In addition, unlike in Zonnebeke, he undertook a number of private projects for some residents of Wervik who had ties to the Hoste family. After all, Huib Hoste’s mother, Adeline Cathérine Vandensteene, was born in Wervik on March 6, 1844.

📏 1.5 km
🕑 1 hour
📍 Tourist Office, Koestraat 63, Wervik
🏁 Sint-Maartensplein, Wervik