The barn that was once full of charm no longer meets the evolving energy standards. The roof, facades and floors remain uninsulated, and the aging roof, covered in asbestos slate, is ready for renewal. The client envisioned a modern, sustainable home while honoring its original character and the peaceful landscape that surrounds it.

We’re embarking on a transformation that will breathe new life into the house without compromising on its original character. Rather than adding new elements to optimize the building, we strip away non-structural walls and floors to reveal the home’s original framework. To preserve the charm of the original structure while ensuring the home meets modern energy standards, we added a new insulating shell crafted in timber. This renovation blends contemporary comfort with a deep respect for the past and the serene beauty of nature.

By designing a triangular cut-out, the house decreases in volume but makes space for an intimate patio shed by natural shadows of the facade. This way, light gets dragged in the core of the house and makes it seamlessly blend in with the surrounding nature.

The color palette was designed with intention. The terracotta kitchen island and green stairs hold special significance. The green nods to the traditional agrarian hues commonly seen on old farm gates and shutters, tying the building to its rural past. All steel structural elements—both on the façade and interior—are painted in this green.

Starting from the existing barn, we reused as much as possible from the original structure and opted for eco-friendly, circular materials like wood, wood wool, and loam. Also the use of a highly efficient air-to-water heat pump and solar panels limit the house’s carbon footprint. We focused on natural insulation materials and natural shade from greenery to prevent excessive heating in summer.

The resident personally curated all the loose furniture, plants, decorations and art pieces throughout the house. Her selections add a unique charm to the space.

All furniture was tailor-made by local carpenters such as Atelier Manus (steel stairs), Hout en interieur (kitchen and kitchen island).

Lighting was chosen at Lux Lightstore Gent with lighting fixtures of Zangra (BE) and Faro Barcelona (ES).

Art is included from different friends and artists, such as work from the Belgian artist Nicolas van Parys.