House SC by Wim Heylen Architect: A Contemporary Transformation

Revitalizing a Semi-Detached Home in Ghent, Belgium

House SC, designed by Wim Heylen Architect, is a modern reinterpretation of a semi-detached residence in Ghent, Belgium. With a focus on minimal intervention and architectural continuity, the project successfully integrates contemporary design elements while preserving the original structure. The 165 m² home, completed in 2022, redefines spatial relationships through strategic modifications that enhance functionality and connectivity.

A Three-Step Architectural Approach

The design strategy for House SC centered around a three-step transformation, ensuring a seamless blend of old and new. The primary goal was to revitalize the existing structure while maintaining its historical essence. This approach began with the heart of the home—the kitchen—where a confined and outdated annex was replaced with a modern addition that fosters a stronger connection to the outdoors.

Drawing inspiration from the surrounding landscape, the new annex enhances accessibility to the rear garden and a repurposed outbuilding. A defining feature of this transformation is the integration of afzelia wood-framed windows, carefully positioned to introduce natural light while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic. The contemporary windows replace an outdated corner window and are replicated in the new addition to establish visual harmony.

Enhancing Indoor-Outdoor Connectivity

One of the key challenges in the renovation was mitigating the impact of direct sunlight. This was achieved through the addition of a sleek canopy extending along the southern and western facades. Supported by three strategically placed columns, the canopy's elegant curvature establishes a fluid transition between the existing structure and the extension. Clad in white glazed tiles, these columns reflect sunlight, enhancing brightness while introducing a modern contrast against the original materials. The result is a serene outdoor seating area beneath a central window, where residents can enjoy the warmth of the evening sun.

Seamless Interior Integration

Inside the home, design continuity was a guiding principle. Custom kitchen cabinetry extends fluidly from the original house into the new addition, reinforcing a sense of unity. The open-plan configuration fosters a smooth transition between the kitchen and living spaces, optimizing natural light and spatial flow.

Beyond the ground floor, the renovation extends to the upper levels, introducing a new staircase that leads to an attic-turned-bedroom. A newly integrated dormer enhances natural illumination while optimizing space usage. On the first floor, additional sanitary facilities, including a bathroom and a separate toilet, contribute to the home’s modern functionality. To further amplify natural light, curved walls were introduced in circulation areas, subtly mirroring the curved canopy outside. This design detail enhances spatial fluidity, ensuring that the interplay between light and structure remains a defining characteristic throughout the home.

Sustainability and Material Selection

The project embraces sustainable architecture by integrating energy-efficient solutions and durable materials. Collaborating with manufacturers such as RENSON, Wienerberger, and Heylen Ceramics, the design team selected high-performance materials that prioritize longevity and environmental responsibility. The stability engineering by Lime Engineering and energy consultation by EMS further reinforced the project’s commitment to sustainability.

House SC by Wim Heylen Architect exemplifies how thoughtful architectural interventions can breathe new life into an existing structure without compromising its integrity. By balancing contemporary design with historical context, the project seamlessly merges past and present, creating a home that is both functional and visually compelling.

Project Details

• Architect: Wim Heylen
• Location: Ghent, Belgium
• Area: 165 m²
• Completion Year: 2022
• Photographs: Wim Heylen
• Manufacturers: RENSON, Wienerberger, Heylen Ceramics, R.A.P. Industries
• Stability Engineer: Lime Engineering
• Energy Consultant: EMS