location

Texture is situated on the banks of the river Leie, the main gateway to the industrial heritage of the area. This is at walking distance from the historical and tourist centre of Kortrijk. The location is also renowned for being a connection point for cycle and boat tourists in the region. Overleie, the neighbourhood where Texture is located, is currently in full development. A master plan realizes a number of important works which are important for the integration of the museum in its surrounding.

History

The building was constructed in 1912 by the Linen Thread Company. When it was finished, however, it was immediately claimed by the German authorities, who used it as a pigeon prison to lock up the birds since the pigeons were considered to be important messengers during World War I. The Linen Thread Company could finally start with the flax distribution centre in 1918. The centre had a strong reputation among the flax producers. For example, the company worked with major Irish & Scottish spinsters, which decreased prices due to large group purchases. Today the building is still one of the most important remains from the flax industry. The building was cynically referred to as “The English syndicate”. It is therefore also a symbol for the importance of the flax crops to the international linen sector.

Design

The architects noArchitecten and Madoch transformed this industrial building into a modern museum. They used contemporary industrial elements and chose to highlight the industrial past of the building. The top floor with its entirely gold colour is a reference to the river Leie or the Golden River. In addition to the permanent exhibition, the building also offers a multifunctional room, a bistro, offices, a studio, an atelier and a spacious reception.