Reconfigured Single-Family House Design: A Modern Transformation in Ghent

A House With A Hat, designed by the architecture firm FELT, is an exceptional example of reconfigured single-family house design that successfully combines the old and the new. Located near Ghent, Belgium, this 2022 project extends a 1960s bungalow by adding a unique, hat-shaped second story. This transformation redefines the concept of residential renovations, blending contemporary elements with the charm of an older structure. In this article, we explore how FELT approached the reconfiguration of this single-family home and the innovative architectural features that set it apart.

The Concept: Adding a Hat to a Classic Structure

The project begins with the reimagination of a modest 1960s bungalow. The initial structure, although functional, lacked the space and modern appeal sought by its inhabitants. FELT extended the home by introducing a second floor, designed to resemble a "hat" perched atop the original bungalow. The new addition is a striking contrast to the old, yet it complements the original structure's form and function.

This reconfigured single-family house design utilizes a unique approach where the second floor, with its diamond-shaped central hall, provides much-needed living space without overwhelming the existing structure. The hat-like form is not only an aesthetic intervention but also a practical solution for increasing the floor area and modernizing the home.

Interior Design: Embracing Light and Space

The design of the interior spaces focuses on creating a seamless flow between the old and the new. On the ground floor, the living spaces are strategically placed to be diagonally connected, ensuring that each room is accessible while maintaining an open-plan feel. This layout helps maximize the natural light that floods the home, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

One of the standout features of the interior is the double-height dining room, which features a barrel-vaulted ceiling. This architectural detail not only adds a sense of grandeur but also allows light to filter through, illuminating the heart of the house. The dining space serves as the link between the ground floor and the newly added upper floor, enhancing the feeling of openness and connection.

The first floor accommodates three bedrooms and a bathroom, offering privacy while still embracing the flow of the ground-floor spaces. The clever use of angles and proportions ensures that the house feels airy and spacious despite the compact floor area.

The Materials: A Blend of Modern and Classic

A key part of the reconfigured single-family house design is the selection of materials. FELT has carefully chosen modern materials such as Reynaers Aluminium for the windows and Sto for the exterior finishes, which give the house a fresh, contemporary look. At the same time, materials like Rockpanel and Cedral bring warmth and texture, creating a balance between sleek, modern surfaces and the more traditional, earthy tones of the original bungalow.

The integration of these materials ensures the home maintains its connection to its surroundings while reflecting the owners' desires for a modern, functional living space.

 A Timeless Transformation

"A House With A Hat" exemplifies how a reconfigured single-family house design can breathe new life into an old structure. By adding a contemporary second floor that interacts harmoniously with the existing bungalow, FELT has created a home that is both functional and visually striking. The project is a testament to the possibilities of residential renovations, where innovative design can meet practical needs while respecting the architectural history of a place.

This transformation in Ghent is not just a story of home renovation—it is a powerful example of how creative architectural solutions can modernize living spaces without sacrificing character and charm. As more homeowners seek to expand or update their properties, A House With A Hat serves as an inspiring model for reimagining the potential of traditional single-family homes

All the photographs are work of Stijn Bollaert