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
facade 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



interior view of dining space and kitchen
image © luc roymans



bedroom
image © luc roymans



bathroom partition opened
image © luc roymans



bathroom partition closed
image © luc roymans



original brick wall
image © luc roymans



within context
image © luc roymans



concept



physical model



floor plan / level 0
(1) entrance
(2) living room
(3) workspace



floor plan / level +1
(4) kitchen
(5) dining


floor plan / level +2
(6) bedroom
(7) washroom



floor plan / level +3
(8) piano room
(9) roof top terrace



(left) front elevation
(right) longitudinal section


project info:

site area: 41 m2
built area: 125 m2