Kasteel ter Meiren

Kasteel ter Meiren is an early 20th-century hunting lodge standing in the village of Meer, part of the municipality of Hoogstraten in the province of Antwerp, Belgium. The building was constructed around 1935 at the initiative of John Lysen, with the design credited to the well-known Belgian architect Jean-Jacques Winders. Two years later, in 1937, a service building was added to the estate, executed in a more restrained neo-Renaissance style that complements the main residence.

What architectural style does the lodge represent?

Winders' design blends several stylistic influences at once — eclecticism dominates, with strong elements of Flemish neo-Renaissance and touches of neoclassicism. A defining feature of the composition is the main entrance facing the pond, flanked by two short wings arranged in a V-shape, each terminating in a round tower. The structure was built in brick, with sandstone used for architectural details, giving the facade its distinctive two-tone appearance.

Where does the name "ter Meiren" come from?

The estate's name refers to the historical character of the surrounding land — the area around the residence was once marshy and rich in water, as confirmed by the 18th-century Ferraris maps drawn up around 1775. It was this wet, water-logged landscape that gave the place its name, still preserved today in the castle's title.

How has the surrounding landscape changed in recent decades?

The grounds around the residence underwent a significant transformation in the second half of the 20th century. In 1981, the garden surrounding the lodge was designed by Jacques Wirtz, one of Belgium's most celebrated landscape architects, whose work can also be admired at other European residences. Over a decade later, in 1995, an orangery was added to the building complex, expanding the estate's functionality and enhancing its representative character.

What protection status does the site hold?

Kasteel ter Meiren is listed as a protected heritage site due to its architectural and historical value as an example of a hunting lodge built during the interbellum period. The protection covers both the main residential building and the accompanying 1937 service building, reflecting a comprehensive approach to preserving the whole estate.

What is the building used for today?

Today, Kasteel ter Meiren operates as a distinctive event venue. Following a careful, sustainable renovation, the estate welcomes guests for weddings, business meetings, and conferences, while also offering comfortable accommodation. A notable part of its offering is the attention paid to the surrounding nature — the flora and fauna around the pond and park form an integral part of the visitor experience, combining a representative function with closeness to nature.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Kasteel ter Meiren located? The residence is located in the village of Meer, part of the municipality of Hoogstraten in the province of Antwerp, Belgium.

Who designed the building? The design was created by architect Jean-Jacques Winders, commissioned by John Lysen around 1935.

Can the castle be visited today? The site functions primarily as an event venue — it is accessible mainly through weddings, conferences, and meetings held there, rather than as a museum or tourist attraction open for general visits.

Is there a garden on the estate? Yes, a garden designed by Jacques Wirtz in 1981 forms an important part of the estate, complemented by an orangery added in 1995.