Ossel
On the outskirts of Brussels, we took over a 100-year-old long-gabled farmhouse on a large plot. The existing main building was retained, but the layout was completely revised. A characteristic fireplace from the old sitting room was retained, while the rest of the space was transformed into a patio. The existing window openings were retained, leaving a connection to the new rear building from this sheltered spot. Inside became outside and vice versa.
The habitable area was not to be touched, resulting in a new attached volume at the rear and east side of the main building. A maximum view of the garden behind was created from this new volume, contrasting with the smaller facade openings of the existing main building. The design of the rear extension is stepped, using materials both inside and outside the volume.
The new volume is divided into different spaces, each with a different function. The walls are perpendicular to the large glazed areas and were given the same dark wooden finish both inside and outside. An open circulation space runs along the old rear façade of the main building, emphasising the tension between old and new. At the end, the house was fitted with a home office with two office spaces and a meeting room. These spaces are separately accessible so that work and private life can remain separate.
Adjacent to the eastern patio, the kitchen was installed. The space was opened up to the ridge and the facade is made entirely of glass. This allows the kitchen to enjoy the rising sun in the morning. On the western side, there is a covered outdoor space adjacent to the master bedroom. This bedroom is connected to a spacious dressing room and the bathroom.
On the first floor, there are 3 additional bedrooms, a separate bathroom and a laundry room. The existing dormers were renovated together with the roof and additional light was obtained through the east and west glass wall.
The lounge and dining area were accommodated in the new volume, creating maximum connection with the garden. Although the character of the existing farmhouse was preserved, it was given a contemporary look with thoughtful use of lights and views.
In the front garden, a petanque court has been laid out and at the back the new swimming pool volume provides the transition between the house and the high-rising garden.
