T is for textile
The second aspect of the Vynckier site’s history is deeply rooted in the textile industry. Companies like Parmentier Van Hoegaerden & Cie, Indiënnerie-Teinturerie Gand-Zele-Tubize, Usines Cotonnières Belgique, and spinnerij Pipyn were part of this textile heritage.
Around 1923
The Pipyn textile company begins constructing a new spinning mill, representing a shift from brick vaults (the former Manchester building) towards modern construction methods, including Manchester buildings with unreinforced concrete, joist beams and flat roofs for the first time in history. A boiler house is built alongside the fabric halls.
1928
Due to the stock market crash, Pipyn’s textile business struggles and eventually closes down in 1934.
1934
Vynckier, located just across the canal alo ng the Gasmeterlaan, acquires the empty factory.