House S-L by GRAUX & BAEYENS architecten: A Warm, Contemporary Retreat Immersed in Nature

A Transformation Rooted in Landscape and Lifestyle

House S-L is a striking residential renovation in Ghent, Belgium, reimagined by GRAUX & BAEYENS architecten. Designed by the acclaimed duo Basile Graux and Koen Baeyens, the project reinvents a 1980s bungalow into a contemporary home deeply connected to its lush 1,400 m² garden. For homeowners Marieke and Rob Stockman, the landscape—not the existing structure—was the driving force behind their decision to invest in the property. What they sought was a house that felt like a holiday retreat, defined by openness, warmth, and a subtle rawness in material expression.

Reinterpreting the Bungalow Through Materiality and Contrast

The architects were granted full creative freedom, enabling a bold rethinking of the home’s architecture. Their proposal centered on contrasting volumes: a warm wooden façade paired with an added mass clad in softly tinted roofing panels. A material typically associated with utility was elevated through meticulous attention to color, finish, craftsmanship, and window placement. This approach not only redefined the home’s identity but also introduced a sculptural presence that blends harmoniously with the surrounding greenery.

A Garden-Led Design Philosophy

Outdoor living lies at the heart of House S-L. Graux and Baeyens encouraged the homeowners to embrace the natural textures and fullness of the garden rather than prune it into submission. While outdated structures such as garden sheds and a sheep meadow were removed, the majority of existing plant life was preserved. Mature trees—including cherry, walnut, and apple trees—and two intertwined rose bushes continue to anchor the landscape, offering seasonal richness and immersive views.

Strategically placed windows in unexpected locations, such as narrow side strips, frame fragments of the garden and diffuse natural light across interior spaces. These openings extend the visual boundaries of rooms, making the home feel larger, more open, and continually connected to the outdoors.

Living Spaces Designed for Openness and Interaction

The interior maintains the project’s guiding principles: natural materials, generosity of light, and fluidity. In the kitchen, a large street-facing window creates an intentional sense of openness toward neighbors and passersby. Instead of compromising privacy, this design fosters a lively interaction zone that feels dynamic yet comfortable.

In the living room, structural beams, expansive glazing, and thoughtfully selected finishes add warmth and texture. The architects intentionally shaped the home to evoke a relaxed, holiday-like atmosphere—grounded in simplicity, yet elevated through craftsmanship.

A Home That Greets the Neighborhood

The home’s connection to its surroundings is reinforced by a concrete bench at the front façade. Here, Rob and Marieke often enjoy the evening sun, turning the threshold between private and public space into a social moment. This gesture underscores the project's broader philosophy: a home that welcomes, interacts, and breathes with its environment.

All photographs are works of Luc Roymans