ddm architectuur incorporates the sun's movement and a panoramic garden in belgian residence

ddm architectuur meticulously studied the sun’s movement and natural light qualities in the lush site, before designing house bras. located in brasschaat, belgium, in the greenery between a small lake and an old plot division, the project’s layout was designed to maximize daylight hours with the change of seasons, and open views towards the panoramic garden. covered entirely in natural stone slabs, the residence’s roof and facade allow the building’s raw exterior to blend completely into the landscape.

ddm architectuur divided the ground floor into three areas, scattering glass volumes hosting inner courtyards and dark blocks that hold functional areas. the first area is dedicated to fitness and wellness, featuring a sauna and a long swimming pool with a floor-to-ceiling glass facade, peering into the green surroundings. the second area houses a large living room alongside an open-space kitchen. the kitchen, also in dark tones, contrasts against the lighter ceiling and floors, and features a black cabinetry finish with dark tops.

the third area hosts a music room with a glazed wall open to the garden and its opposite wall clad in a dark larch veneer. the black material visually connects this area with the living room and kitchen, unifying the spaces in cohesive aesthetics. the larch veneer wall matches the surface of other programmatic volumes around the house. the darker volumes host the staircase, pantry, entrance and even the bedrooms.

the master suite dominates the first floor with an unobstructed view of the lush tree crowns in the garden. the library overlooks the pond through the double-height dining room, adding airiness to the elegant environment. the raw, natural material palette of the house is highlighted by cea design‘s stainless steel details, which emphasize the residence’s sleek and minimal architecture. 

project info:

project: private residence – house bras

architecture: ddm architectuur

project location: brasschaat, belgium

bathroom and kitchen fittings: cea design – milo + giotto

photographer: lenzer – peter verplancke