Corniche House: Harmonious Family Living in Braine-l’Alleud

Nestled on the serene outskirts of Braine-l’Alleud, Belgium, the Corniche House by OPEN ARCHITECTES exemplifies modern residential architecture that balances family intimacy, autonomy, and environmental integration. Completed in 2022, this 520 m² residence embodies a thoughtful dialogue between architecture, landscape, and family life, creating a secluded retreat that respects its natural surroundings.

Family-Centric Design: Nesting in Nature

The owners envisioned a home where their children could gain independence while remaining connected to the family core. The architects responded with a design that functions as a ‘nest’—a sanctuary preserving intimacy while supporting individual autonomy. Every architectural decision reflects a careful consideration of family connections, privacy, and shared spaces, resulting in a home that is both protective and liberating.

Contextual Integration and Site Sensitivity

Corniche House sits on a former tennis court, strategically positioned to take full advantage of the existing slope, views, and surrounding trees. OPEN ARCHITECTES prioritized minimal environmental impact, preserving the site’s soul and embracing the natural topography. The project harmoniously blends “controlled” nature in the central courtyard with the wild greenery of undergrowth, ivy, and ferns surrounding the residence.

Architectural Volumetry and Materiality

The house features a simple, elegant volumetry: a flat-roofed upper volume floats above a solid plinth. This configuration creates terraces aligned with the sun’s path, extending living spaces outward throughout the day. The plinth integrates seamlessly into the terrain, using beige stone with a tapered band to anchor the building to the landscape. Above, glazed frames with semi-reflective matte glazing blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces, letting the home dissolve into the greenery. Only the horizontal roofline stands distinct, giving a subtle impression of a levitating volume.

Functional Layout and Outdoor Spaces

The program is organized around a controlled outdoor courtyard and swimming pool. The "night" volume rests discreetly at the slope’s lower edge, disappearing into the land, while the “day” volume overlooks the clearing, with terraces flowing from the living areas. The U-shaped plinth contours the site to create intimacy at the heart of the home, reinforced by retaining walls that shield private areas from public view. Mature trees filter natural light, creating a dynamic, serene atmosphere throughout the property.

Material and Manufacturer Selection

The residence integrates high-quality finishes from leading manufacturers, including Aristide, Arte, Hotbath, M Design, Orac, Reynaers, and Stone. Structural integrity and building physics were managed by Artuur Engineering and HOMECO, while the landscaping by Archi’Vert enhances the home’s relationship with its natural surroundings. Construction was completed by Artea, ensuring a flawless realization of the architects’ vision.

Corniche House: A Model of Sustainable, Family-Oriented Architecture

With its sensitive site integration, elegant volumetry, and family-oriented layout, Corniche House demonstrates how contemporary residential architecture can reconcile modern living with environmental mindfulness. Its thoughtful approach to space, light, and privacy makes it a true architectural nest for multigenerational living in harmony with nature.

All photographs are works of  Utku Pekli