Studio Okami Architecten has transformed a Belgian family home in Belsele with an innovative extension, The Garden Pavilion. This project, designed for a client who purchased their grandparents' house, aimed to modernize the property while preserving its unique character. The studio's approach focused on creating a seamless connection between the interior and the garden, resulting in a stunning architectural addition.
The Garden Pavilion is a striking single-storey structure clad in green marble, a bold choice that sets it apart from the traditional reddish-brown brick of the original house. The marble's polished surface not only adds visual appeal but also ensures durability. The design philosophy behind this choice was to "bring the outside in," with expansive glass doors and windows on each side of the pavilion, flooding the space with natural light and creating a strong connection to the garden and its changing seasons.
Co-founder Hans Vanassche explained that the pavilion's form was inspired by the desire to maximize the relationship between the building and the garden. The sculptural roof and the shallow canopy over the glass windows are direct results of this design goal. The neutral-toned, gently curving concrete canopy complements the marble facade, creating a harmonious contrast.
Inside, the studio cleverly reorganized the layout to accommodate private spaces in the original house and shared spaces in the pavilion. This extension includes an open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area, seamlessly integrated into the original living room. The centerpiece of this open-space is a stainless steel kitchen island, paired with speckled terrazzo flooring and deep bottle-green tiles, mirroring the marble facade. This design choice orchestrates a smooth flow from the living room to the dining area and outdoor terrace.
The studio also made thoughtful alterations to the interior, converting the large entrance area into the main bedroom for the parents, complete with a dressing room, home office, and downstairs bathroom. Upstairs, the original bathroom was reduced to create a smaller shower room, making way for three bedrooms for the children, connected to the kitchen via an open staircase. These changes ensure that the home's functionality and aesthetics are enhanced without compromising the original character.
Previous projects by Studio Okami Architecten, such as a home in East Flanders with patterned brick walls and a woodland villa in Antwerp with a mirrored facade, showcase their versatility and innovative approach to architecture. The photography for this project is by Tim Van de Valde, capturing the beauty and essence of the design.
This transformation of a Belgian home is a testament to Studio Okami Architecten's ability to blend modern aesthetics with a deep connection to nature, creating spaces that are both functional and visually captivating.
