Project: ETIE
Architects: Edouard Brunet + François Martens
Location: Flanders, Belgium
Area: 3,982 sq ft
Photographs by: Studio Dennis De Smet
ETIE by Edouard Brunet + François Martens
Architects Edouard Brunet and François Martens managed to transform the outside expression of an existing house while keeping the original spirit. Their intentions and attention to details has enabled to bring lightness and elegance to a rustic original building. Besides the external makeover, their interventions have also helped to add to the quality of life of the residents by offering a bright interior connected to its environment. Therefore, the house is all the more generous and enjoyable.
From the architects: “Attracted by the large garden and the tranquil environment of this house located a few kilometres away from Brussels, the new owners wished to carry out works to make it brighter and to open it up on the outside.
The intention of the architects was naturally to build large windows on the back of the house (opening on the garden) as well as on the side façades. The new extension on the back is largely glazed and opens on the long garden. The large side windows that have been opened allow to track the sun’s path and to take advantage of the natural light throughout the day.
In order to respect the existing architecture, the two architects deliberately chose to make sure their works would be clearly identifiable. To achieve this, each new opening was highlighted by a black frame that extends from the inside to the outside. They act as frames for the environment of the house.
Slates and the roof insulation have been replaced while maintaining the shape of the distinctive roof. The interior set up was modified with a kitchen in contact with the terrace and a room made available in the basement via a new staircase on the rear of the house.”
