BRDN House Transformation by Bauclub: A Seamless Dialogue Between Heritage and Modern Living

A Visionary Home Renovation That Bridges Past and Present

The BRDN House Transformation, designed by Bauclub, is a striking example of how thoughtful architecture can breathe new life into a historic family home. Located in the heart of Brussels, this 2021 renovation reimagines a traditional Belgian house, turning it into a light-filled, spatially dynamic residence that seamlessly connects indoor living with nature.

The clients sought a comprehensive transformation—one that would not only expand the space but also establish a stronger visual and physical connection to the lush rear garden, previously disconnected from the living experience.

A Spatial Journey: From Street to Garden

The design follows a conceptual path—a sequence of spatial experiences guiding the resident from the public street frontage to the private serenity of the garden. This gradual transition enhances the sense of openness and intimacy, using subtle architectural cues to define zones of activity and rest.

• A new side entrance, set beneath a recessed awning, offers a discreet yet welcoming access point.
• The original living room is repurposed into a multi-functional buffer space, serving as a games area and library that bridges the public and private domains.

The Kitchen as a Central Node

At the core of the layout lies the kitchen—an open, functional hub that unites various living zones across split levels. This central role allows it to act as both an architectural anchor and a social space, embodying the home’s emphasis on hospitality and family interaction.

The house flows in half-levels, creating an interplay of volumes and perspectives reminiscent of Adolf Loos’s Raumplan—a design philosophy where each room is tailored in height and shape to its specific use.

Layered Living Across Three Floors

• Ground Floor: Open kitchen and dining area, with easy access to the garden.
• First Floor: Renovated bedrooms and bathrooms in the existing structure, with a new bedroom added in the extension.
• Second Floor: A loft-style parental suite, featuring a fully open attic space. A glazed bathroom pod and a rear-facing skylight open up panoramic views of the nearby Kauwberg natural reserve.

This layering allows for distinct experiences across floors, maintaining privacy while enhancing connectivity.

Natural Light, Material Honesty, and Roof Geometry

The transformation introduces a variety of single-pitched roofs, strategically oriented to maximize natural daylight and create varied spatial atmospheres. These simple, sloping forms not only improve energy efficiency but also lend architectural character to each room.

Material selection favors authenticity and contrast:

• Exposed brick, timber beams, and original textures are preserved and celebrated.
• Newly introduced elements complement without overpowering the house’s historic identity.
• Traditional construction techniques are honored, embedding craftsmanship into the modern narrative.

Reconnecting with Nature

One of the project’s core goals was to reconnect the living spaces with the outdoors. Large glazed surfaces and thoughtful sightlines draw the eye toward the greenery, offering ever-changing views and a heightened sense of openness. The rear skylight in the master suite, in particular, acts as a portal to the protected Kauwberg Park, creating a tranquil sanctuary for its occupants.