The collection includes a design by Gustave Magnel, one of the pioneers of pre-stressed concrete. He conceived a tower for the 1958 World Exhibition in Brussels.

It was to stand 635 metres high with aerials that covered the entire country. Doubts about the feasibility led the planners to decide on the Atomium instead.

The exhibition also features a model of how the spire of the Ghent Saint Michael’s Church should look according to 17th century designs by Lieven Cruyl.

It envisaged a Gothic tower of 129 metres that would make it the highest spire in the city. Today the spire still stands unfinished.

Flandersnews.be / Expatica