Koning van Engeland

Jos Goossen, a former HTS Civil Engineering student, one of the precursors of HZ, is nominated with the project Koning van Engeland in Hulst. What began as a traditional cinema plan evolved into a multifunctional place where film, theatre, and hospitality meet, bringing the city to life.

Instead of choosing a classic profit-driven model, Jos deliberately opted for a broader interpretation of value. He looked beyond the physical building and invested in its social and cultural role. The result is a meeting place that not only attracts visitors but also contributes to the vitality of Hulst’s city center.

Collaboration central

A key feature of Koning van Engeland is its collaborative approach. By responding to momentum during the COVID period and involving partners such as businesses—including DOW—a innovative financing model was developed. This model focused not only on economic feasibility but also explicitly on livability and spatial quality.

The impact is clearly visible. Hulst’s city center sees more visitors, local hospitality and shops benefit from increased foot traffic, and space has emerged for cultural initiatives and local artists. The project has become more than a building—it is a catalyst for urban dynamism.

The “we-feeling” remains

What matters most to Jos is the collective nature of the project. By bringing different parties together, not only was a financially viable plan created, but also a strong sense of ownership and connection. That “we-feeling” continues even after completion.

With Koning van Engeland, Jos shows that spatial development is not only about economic value, but about creating value for society.