House BM by Bakermat atelier voor architectuur: A Modernist Renovation in Belgium

A Modern Transformation of a 1959 Belgian Home

House BM, designed by Bakermat atelier voor architectuur, is a sensitive yet bold renovation of a typical 1959 Belgian subdivision house. Originally built as the grandmother’s residence of the current occupant, the home reflected the characteristics of its era—sober detailing, limited daylight, and almost no connection between the interior living spaces and the surrounding garden.

With time, the needs of the family evolved. The new residents, a blended family with significant age differences, required a spatial upgrade. Above all, the parents wanted a bright living environment, a stronger relationship with the outdoors, and an extension that could support lifelong living.

Design Concept: Inspired by Californian Modernism

The renovation draws inspiration from Californian Modernist architecture and the iconic Case Study Houses. This stylistic choice reflects the clients’ appreciation for vintage designer furniture and timeless architectural elegance.

Working within a limited budget and the requirement that the home remain habitable throughout construction, Bakermat adopted a careful approach: retaining much of the original layout and façades, while introducing a minimalist extension at the rear to connect seamlessly with the garden.

Spatial Organization and Daylight Strategy

The heart of the transformation lies in the creation of new spatial connections. Large windows and clean architectural lines introduce abundant daylight, while a patio courtyard acts as both a separator and connector between the sleeping quarters and living areas.

This patio is more than a functional buffer—it becomes a “green tube”, channeling natural light deep into the home and reinforcing the indoor-outdoor experience.

Inside, the spaces revolve around a central fireplace volume, which defines the extension’s façade and doubles as a subtle divider between the private bedroom and communal living spaces.

Minimalist Extension with Indoor-Outdoor Continuity

The new extension was designed with minimal lines, expansive glazing, and integrated built-in storage. By keeping clutter contained in the original house, the extension achieves an open, tranquil atmosphere.

A covered terrace adjacent to the living space strengthens the bond with the garden, while also extending the use of the house into the outdoor environment throughout the seasons.

Material Palette and Interior Ambience

Material choices were key in unifying the old and new. The extension’s facing brick was matched in tone to the original façade, yet laid in a straight masonry bond to create subtle contrast. A white-painted metal roof and corrugated ceiling enhance the brightness, while black aluminum joinery and natural polished concrete flooring bring balance and texture.

Inside, the architects curated a warm, modern palette. Walnut veneer, deep reds, and soft greens combine with black accents, grounding the space while complementing the clients’ vintage furniture collection. Despite varied elements, the interiors exude a harmonious and understated calmness.

House BM exemplifies how thoughtful renovation can respect heritage while introducing modern living standards. By drawing inspiration from Californian Modernism, embracing natural light, and connecting with the landscape, Bakermat atelier voor architectuur transformed a modest 1959 Belgian home into a timeless, light-filled residence tailored for multi-generational living.

All photographs are works of Michiel Vergauwe