Sometimes you do your discoveries in unexpected places. In Herentals  the I Love Belgium team spotted a modern take on a Belgian red brick house. The inclining roof really is a true eye catcher and serves the recognizability of the house. We were not surprised to learn that this house is the home of architect Tim Vekemans, whose office RE-ST (together with Dimitri Minten) conceptualized the building.

The RE-ST office didn’t deny the Belgian heritage. The red bricks that Belgian houses are so known for, are central in the design and create a massive and textured look. They were carefully constructed and detailed so they would be the prime focus of the house. Tim and Dimitri made sure nothing distracts from the lines and shape of the house. The drainpipes are made invisible against the walls and even the doors and windows were made to be minimal intrusive.

The modern approach is continued inside the house. In an experimental fashion the connected living spaces form an imaginary circle so that the distances between the different areas are shortened. Very functional but also bringing an infinite feel to it. Sounds heavenly, no? And we didn’t talk about the view yet! The large window openings each time frame a specific view. In a green environment that’s a real upside. Another great element: the height of the storey is increased, adding to the living quality of its inhabitants. We can only marvel!

Last but not least: the house is energy efficient because of its compactness and good isolation. Every raindrop is saved up in the sunken gutter and put to good use. In short the Vekemans house is a modern house that still is very domestic: the ideal Belgian house?

© I Love Belgium

I LOVE BELGIUM

I LOVE BELGIUM

I LOVE BELGIUM

I LOVE BELGIUM

I LOVE BELGIUM

I LOVE BELGIUM

I LOVE BELGIUM

I LOVE BELGIUM