House with office Sint-Katelijne-Waver

Art pavilion with patio
Typical are the elongated canopies, imposing glass facades and natural stone walls around an outdoor room with a reflecting water feature. As you approach the site, the villa gradually reveals itself. At the entrance, a long wall in dark gray cleaved natural stone largely shields the building. A similar wall then guides you towards the entrance. It is only when you take a few steps in that direction that you are amazed by the architecture, which is characterized by large glass facades, long crossings and earthy colours.

Circulation as a gallery
Sufficient office space and a swimming pool with bar: those things definitely had to be present. Moreover, the art collection had to be given a prominent place. The backbone of the house is formed by a central circulation axis that cuts right through the building. From the front door you look in a straight line into the garden. All living and working functions are organized along this visual axis. Rooms with a more closed character such as bedrooms, bathrooms and offices are oriented to the north. The living space, kitchen and a meeting room open onto the terrace, which is conceived as a full-fledged outdoor space. In addition, the axis serves as an art gallery.

Secure central patio
The roof flows into large overhangs that seem to float over the interior and exterior spaces and long natural stone walls. Not only do these canopies anchor the living spaces in the environment, they also enhance the idea of ​​an outdoor room. A concept that is reinforced by gigantic windows with maximum concealed window profiles. Moreover, the natural stone with which the facades are clad continues into the floors, both inside and outside. By considering the terrace and the pool area as part of the house, we create an expanding effect. The freestanding walls and the pool house make a protective movement around the central patio.

Text: Home Sweet Home
Photos: Nick Cannaerts and Schellen Architects
Interior: Aerts + Blower