Tour & Taxis Forest
A Miyawaki pocket forest in the heart of Brussels.
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Trees
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Self sustaining pocket forest
Located within Bureau Bas Smets’ 12-hectare parkland redevelopment, Tour & Taxis Forest continues to thrive in the heart of Brussels. Since its planting in February 2022, the trees have grown tall, becoming an integral part of the city’s green landscape. Offering both a peaceful retreat and a passageway for those moving through the Tour & Taxis park, the forest invites visitors to rethink their relationship with urban nature, biodiversity, and the value of living ecosystems within a historic, regenerating area.
Interestingly, we did observe that one 100 m² section developed more slowly. To support it, we applied compost tea - rich in beneficial microorganisms - to stimulate soil life and strengthen root systems. This natural approach had already proven effective in other parts of the forest, and we’re confident it will bring renewed vitality here too.
While the forest has become a popular and much-loved feature of the park, its welcoming atmosphere has also led to some security challenges, with some using it for overnight shelter. To ensure the space remains safe and accessible for all visitors - and to protect the growing ecosystem - we’re considering light fencing or other gentle measures to better define the area.
Forest Maker
Nicolas de Brabandère
Forest Partner
Ecosystem Restored
Final report: 14.08.2025
After approximately three years our SUGi Pocket Forests become self-sustaining. They no longer require human maintenance or watering, and can be handed over to Nature for biodiversity and complexity to naturally develop.
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People living within 300 meters
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Biodiversity
Biodiversity is all the different kinds of life you'll find in one area—the variety of animals, plants, fungi, and even microorganisms like bacteria that make up our natural world. Each of these species and organisms work together in ecosystems, like an intricate web, to maintain balance and support life.
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“Brussels is my home city. It's a dream come true to create an urban forest at its very heart. During the 19th century, Belgium experienced intense economic and industrial growth. Nowadays, it is turning into a grand park with historical buildings for fairs and culture where everyone can meet. I am honoured to add a touch of its wild spirit in the form of a lush forest full of life and inspiration for the new generation.”
Nicolas de Brabandère, SUGi Forest Maker
Urban Heat Profile
The Urban Heat Island Effect is affecting cities more and more each year and temperetures in urban areas can go up to 12 degrees hotter. This can be reduced and prevented by planting urban forests like this. We collected the air temperatures on an unusually hot day in June at Tour & Taxis Forest and saw amazing results.
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Forest Report: 2024
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Average of Tallest 3 Trees
This forest is doing very well! After a slower growing season last year, the willows and alders in the forest have experienced a fast growth spurt, putting on nearly two meters in just a year.
There is still a spot where the trees are too small, in the flood-prone zone, but they are in good shape - so with a little patience, the forest will become dense and tall everywhere.
Biodiversity Notes:
Forest Report: 2023
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Average of Tallest 3 Trees
The general growth of the forest is low, most probably a result of the extremely dry and hot summer in 2022. However, the survival rate is really high! The ground cover is mainly dense grasses which is great for maintaining humidity. As the forest is within a public park, we have noticed the occasional pieces of litter, but are working to prevent this to protect the beauty of the forest.
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Forest Report: 2022
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Average of Tallest 3 Trees
Biodiversity Notes:
“The Miyawaki forest will complete the different landscape strategies deployed over the last 10 years for the reconversion of the former industrial site of Tour & Taxis into a lush evolutive landscape.”
Bas Smets, Founder - Bureau Bas Smets
Planting: February 2022
Forest Design
This SUGi Pocket Forest supports biodiversity in a highly urbanized area and creates a corridor where wildlife can thrive. The density of the forest helps to reduce air pollution and allows local residents to breathe cleaner air. It also provides a sheltered, shady space to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature, offering some respite from busy city life.
