graux & baeyens architecten: KCV house

‘KCV house’ by graux & baeyens architecten in mechelen, belgium all images courtesy graux & baeyens architecten image © luc roymans

belgian practice graux & baeyens architecten (koen baeyens, basile graux) has sent us images of ‘KCV house’, a renovation project to a three-storey family house in the city center of mechelen, belgium. enclosed from three sides by adjacent structures, the design aims to secure large vistas for each level through the street façade while seamlessly integrating itself into the city’s urban fabric.

street elevation image © luc roymans

slotted onto a slim site, the pre-existing 18th century house initially exhibited a series of small windows that generated a cramped expression to the street facade. by stacking large square-shaped windows which stretches the whole height of each storey, the elevation gains a fresh identity while projecting the interior beyond the building towards the old city skyline. re-finished with a white plaster facade, the wooden window frames are highlighted in its contrast.

(left) stacked windows (right) street view images © luc roymans

with a small footprint measuring 41 m2, the main challenge of the layout was to provide a comfortable organization of living spaces. each level combines complimentary programs together to ensure an organic flow of functions: dining room with the kitchen; bedroom with the bathroom; living room with a work space. the original elements of the building are maintained through the exposed timber floor structure, stairs and brick walls. the old pitched roof was removed to accommodate a piano room and an outdoor terrace with a panoramic view.

roof terrace from the piano room image © luc roymans