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Heuvelland, Belgium – TOOP architectuur
Project Year : 2016
Designed to barely interrupt the agrarian landscape in a Flemish village, CASWES is a single-story residential structure made of concrete and wood. From a distance, the house looks like a solid box, its exteriors interrupted by large framed windows. But inside the box, surprises await.
On one side, the box opens up with a sliver of space to reveal a patio. A nice addition to the house, this inner garden is where the residents come together for quality time. This, according to the architects, is the heart of the house.
Large windows allow natural light to come in and gives a great view of the outdoors. With white walls and lightly-colored floors the whole space looks bright and airy, making it seem larger than it really is.
Notes from the Architect:
North of the West-Flemish village of Westouter one can find a plot in an open and rural landscape, heavily influenced by the typical agricultural activities in the area. The setting has had a great impact on the design of this single family house, which is solemnly surrounded by a few farms and a group of trees here and there.
The atypical shape of the parcel, together with the not so ideal orientation of the plot have been transformed into remarkable assets for the project. The single-story volume of the building is a consequence of the lack of surrounding buildings. This choice of design has limited the appearance in the surroundings greatly. The cut-off parallel to the border of the plot was used to enhance the synergy between building and nature and made sure the inhabitants have the best possible view on nature at every possible angle.
The living areas are situated at the north of the house. This is also the side were the connection with the surroundings is at its maximum. An intimate inner garden creates a private area for the inhabitants and is a gateway for natural light. This patio is the heart of the house, where life is directed by the ever-changing seasons.
The building materials, have been guided by the vibrant colours of the rural landscape. Grey wood, patterned concrete and dark, anodised windows are the main components. The use of concrete is a wink to the historical nature of the surroundings and accentuates the massiveness of the building. Oak floors provide warmth to the interior and the kitchen area made of black-stained oak acts as a resting point. These basic colours make sure the focus is on what is happening outside, not inside.
The high accessibility, due to the single-story volume, is a sign that the project will grow together with the inhabitants and expresses a clear demand for life long living. The different areas are all connected with each other. This way, the close relationship with nature and the area are never forgotten.
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Exterior Views :
Interior Views :
Drawing Views :
Did you like the shape and design of CASWES House? Then you’re going to love Pilar House, too!
