red pavilion by dierendonckblancke architects crowns belgian manor

belgian studio dierendonckblancke architects renovated an old, traditional manor house in the center of ghent by adding a daring red volume on top. the owners asked the architects to extend their single family home and incorporate a garden or exterior space plus a quiet reading area. due to the house’s urban location, the architects decided to turn to an area that had been unused until now, the roof.

all images © filip dujardin

the architects’ solution was a bright red rooftop pavilion, contrasting its monochrome environment. the volume’s geometric form and contemporary materials stand out against the more traditional buildings around it, emphasizing its position as an independent building. meanwhile, its small surrounding terrace provides an exterior area for the owners to relax. 

to access the new space, the architects added a spiral blue staircase that ascends to the added room. inside, the reading room’s interiors are warm and neural, a refreshing palette that differs from the existing, more classical style of the house. the light blue tiled flooring, CLT-clad walls and ceiling, and beige decor provide a calming environment to enjoy a book or the city views.

project info:

project name: house hofstraat

architecture firm: dierendonckblancke architects

design team: alexander dierendonck, isabelle blancke, catherine pyck

location: ghent, belgium

construction years: 2015- 2017

client: private

photography: filip dujardin