The Black Box by Objekt Architecten: A Bold Renovation in Sint-Lievens-Houtem

Architectural renovation meets modern lifestyle in The Black Box, a transformative residential project by Objekt Architecten in Sint-Lievens-Houtem, Belgium. The 400-square-meter home—formerly a worn doctor’s office—has been reimagined to meet the evolving needs of its new residents. With a design focused on spatial fluidity, material contrast, and optimized energy performance, the house exemplifies how contemporary architecture can breathe new life into existing structures.

Reimagining the Ground Floor: Centralized Core with a Custom Black Identity

At the heart of the renovation lies a strategic reorganization of the ground floor. The architects centralized all functional spaces—including a laundry room, stairwell, walk-in fridge, toilet, and basement access—into a sleek black wooden core. This core, designed to appear as custom cabinetry from all angles, not only conceals services but also acts as a spatial anchor for the rest of the home.

Surrounding this black volume, life unfolds naturally. The open-plan kitchen, positioned at the rear of the house, connects seamlessly to a new full-height window wall. This architectural intervention floods the dining area with daylight and provides visual continuity to the upper-level home office via a double-height void—enhancing both transparency and vertical connection.

Dual Living Spaces: Intimate Comfort Meets Bright Hospitality

Flanking the kitchen are two distinct living zones. One offers a cozy, dimmed atmosphere ideal for reading or gaming, while the other serves as a bright and open social space, complete with a large dining area and a sculptural Focus Gyrofocus fireplace. These dual spaces support both retreat and social gatherings, underlining the home's flexible living design.

The flooring selection complements each function: elegant herringbone parquet warms the living and entrance areas, while durable tile defines the kitchen. Within the black central core, blue ceramic tiles add a surprise pop of color and contrast.

Vertical Expansion: Light, Air, and Bold Interior Expression

Upstairs, the architectural narrative continues with a spatial expansion. By partially removing the attic, the night hall was opened to the roof ridge, creating dramatic ceiling heights in the primary bedroom and upstairs bathroom. In contrast to the understated palette of the ground floor, the upstairs spaces introduce playful color and texture.

The bathroom bursts with personality, featuring hot pink walls, wine-red cabinets, and a terrazzo-tiled walk-in shower that reflects and refracts the vibrant hues. This juxtaposition of color with elevated volume creates a bathroom that feels both indulgent and energetic.

Energy-Efficient and Tailored for Contemporary Living

The renovation was not only aesthetic but also functional. Upgraded technical systems and insulation bring the home in line with modern energy-efficiency standards, ensuring sustainable living comfort. Objekt Architecten has successfully combined bold design gestures with practical architectural interventions, resulting in a home that aligns with the lifestyle and ambitions of its owners.

Project Details

• Project Name: The Black Box
• Architects: Objekt Architecten
• Lead Architects: Niels Van der Straeten, Dries Van Nieuwenbergh, Mahir Yavas
• Location: Sint-Lievens-Houtem, Belgium
• Area: 400 m²
• Completion Year: 2023
• Photography: Ypsilon Business Photography
• Manufacturers Featured: Focus, Gessi, Quooker, Sapa, Villeroy & Boch