Climate-resilient urban design

Tree Grates and Guards that Strengthen and Protect Urban Nature.

What Makes Urban Spaces Truly Climate-Resilient? 

Be Inspired by the Story of Camilo Torres Leuven

Climate-resilient urban design is more than just a buzzword—it’s a real challenge for everyone involved in public and semi-public spaces. But what does it mean in practice? In Leuven, a unique green semi-public space is nestled between student residences: a place where simplicity, forward thinking and smart choices come together. What can we learn from this for every type of outdoor space, both today and tomorrow?

Set between the buildings of the Camilo Torres student housing, this courtyard garden has demonstrated for decades that sustainable choices have a lasting impact. Here, nature, practical usability and social interaction seamlessly blend. The space proves that climate-resilient urban design goes beyond simple greening: it requires thoughtful material selection, flexible street furniture and an open approach to who the users are.

A wooden Tramet bench without a backrest stands in a green, climate-resilient courtyard between student residences in Leuven.

A Living Lesson in Sustainable Urban Development

This courtyard began as an innovative student project in the 1970s and remains a source of inspiration today. The garden combines gently sloping paths, shady planting and a sense of natural calm. Years later, at the request of KU Leuven, the Tramet benches from the Escofet 1886 collection were added, supplied by Servibo. These benches, without backrests, perfectly suit the user group: mobile young people and passers-by of all ages who pause, meet, or briefly spend time in the space.

This subtle update illustrates that a resilient outdoor area can evolve with the times without losing its essence. By choosing robust, low-maintenance furniture from certified suppliers, the space remains relevant for generations.

Two wooden Tramet benches without backrests are placed in a green, climate-resilient courtyard with cobblestones on the campus of student residences in Leuven.

Why This Semi-Public Space Works—and What We Can Learn

The strength of the Camilo Torres garden lies in the interplay of design, materials and use. There are no fleeting trends here, but conscious, sustainable choices that stand the test of time:

  • Long lifespan: Robust materials from reputable suppliers, suitable for intensive use.
  • Minimal maintenance: Both the greenery and the street furniture require little upkeep.
  • Resilient design: Natural shading, smart pathways and timeless furniture support a climate-resilient approach.
  • Flexible layout: The absence of backrests makes the benches versatile for different users, with a focus on mobile people and passers-by.

Two long wooden Tramet benches without backrests face each other on a sunny cobblestone square, surrounded by greenery, in the climate-resilient courtyard of student residences in Leuven.

From Inspiration to Concrete Solutions

This space demonstrates that climate-resilient urban design calls for sustainable choices and collaboration with experienced suppliers. Servibo advises governments, developers and designers to invest in proven, timeless solutions for both public and semi-public areas. By thinking long-term and choosing quality, every outdoor space becomes a resilient core for encounters and nature.

Curious how such a semi-public space truly comes to life and what insights it offers for your own project?

Read the full blogpost on Camilo Torres Leuven and discover the lessons for climate-resilient urban design.

A sturdy wooden table with matching backless benches stands on a cobblestone terrace, surrounded by greenery and modern student residences on the Leuven campus.

More inspiration? Discover similar blog articles with insights:  

A wooden Tramet bench without a backrest stands on a sunny cobblestone path in a green, climate-resilient courtyard between student residences in Leuven.

Camilo Torres Leuven: 
Climate-Resilient Urban Design in Practice

Between the student residences of Camilo Torres, you’ll find a green space from the 1970s where simplicity, timeless design, and thoughtful choices come together. Discover how this spot in Leuven inspires future-proof outdoor spaces and sustainable street furniture.

Discover more
Two students walk towards a wide concrete staircase at the Faculty of Medicine on the Gasthuisberg campus of KU Leuven.

KU Leuven Gasthuisberg Campus: 

The Silent Power of In-Between Spaces

This campus area shows how an apparently ordinary passageway can provide a true mental pause. Discover how non-directive design and durable materials create a place that combines calm, connection, and usability.

Discover more

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Whether you’re a municipal planner, landscape architect, or policymaker, tree grates and guards offer a wide range of benefits for your projects. Interested in learning more about how these solutions contribute to sustainable urban design? 

Check out our comprehensive blog on tree grates and guards, where we delve into innovations, technical specifications, and practical tips.

Browse our product range to discover which designs could make a difference in your project. Contact us for tailored advice and see how these versatile solutions can contribute to greener, healthier public spaces.

Contact us for tailored advice and discover how these versatile solutions contribute to a greener and healthier environment.

Contact us for more information