9 Social Housing Units in Brussels by Atelier Tom Vanhee

Contextual and Community-Centric Social Housing

Located in a residential street in Brussels, Atelier Tom Vanhee's 9 Social Housing Units are a thoughtful response to both the urban context and community engagement. The project consists of nine user-owned townhouses, offering affordable housing with a focus on neighborhood integration, material honesty, and architectural character.

Drawing inspiration from the local brickwork patterns and the volumetric language of the surrounding houses, the design creates continuity while asserting its own identity. By preserving the rhythm of the streetscape and echoing the familiar textures of the neighborhood, the housing seamlessly blends into its context.

Small-Scale Interventions, Lasting Impact

One of the project's most charming features is the integration of communal green space. By simply removing cobblestones from the sidewalk, small urban gardens were introduced — a participatory gesture by local residents that enhances the livability of the street.

At the threshold of each home, private front gardens soften the transition from public to domestic space, while promoting neighborly interaction. These micro-gardens are not only ecological gestures but also a symbolic act of ownership and care.

Material Tactility and Environmental Considerations

Material selection plays a key role in the project’s architectural language. The façades are composed of bricks in tones carefully selected to harmonize with neighboring buildings, maintaining visual continuity while introducing subtle variation through patterns and textural play.

A strong emphasis was placed on sustainable and natural materials. Beech wood, used for stairs, railings, doors, and window contours, adds warmth and tactility to the interiors. These wooden elements were crafted by local artisan Schrijnwerkerij Schotte, emphasizing local craftsmanship and renewable materials.

In contrast to the natural tones of wood and brick, aluminum-framed windows introduce a modern touch, adding depth and variation to the façades. Inside, small-format ceramic tiles in bathrooms enhance the perception of space and reflect light, creating a calm and bright atmosphere.

Spatial Experience and Light Optimization

The interior layout of the homes is carefully composed to ensure maximum natural light and spatial fluidity. Interior windows positioned centrally allow daylight to reach deeper parts of the home, enhancing the sense of openness and connectivity across levels.

All Photographs are works of Filip Dujardin