Villa ABC by Objekt Architecten: A Contemporary Renovation Enhancing Family Living in Belgium

In the tranquil town of Lebbeke, Belgium, the architectural firm Objekt Architecten has transformed an ordinary family home into the stunning Villa ABC, a residence that reflects the evolving needs of a growing family. This 2023 renovation project not only expands spatial functionality but also brings new life and character to the home while seamlessly integrating it with its surrounding natural landscape.

Rethinking Circulation and Layout

Faced with the challenge of an outdated layout, the architects focused on reimagining the interior circulation to suit the needs of a family with two teenagers. The existing house required a smarter use of space, more generous common areas, and a modern, practical bathroom to accommodate the family’s daily routines.

The most significant architectural intervention was the demolition of the rear volume, replaced with a thoughtfully designed new extension. This addition included a rooftop dormer, which expanded the usable area on both the ground and first floors. With an entire rear façade of glass, the new volume floods the interior with daylight and opens stunning, uninterrupted views of the garden, creating a deep connection between inside and outside.

A Kitchen That Becomes the Heart of the Home

The redesigned kitchen showcases a teardrop-shaped kitchen island positioned at the center — a striking element that invites both cooking and gathering. The architects cleverly repositioned the dining and seating areas, placing the dining space adjacent to the kitchen, accessible through two hidden doors embedded in the kitchen wall. This strategic move strengthens the spatial flow between the kitchen and social zones, making the kitchen the vibrant heart of the house.

The dining area features a built-in bench nestled in the bay window, offering a cozy retreat to enjoy views of the lush garden and the mature catalpa tree. A beautiful herringbone parquet floor graces the dining and living areas, adding warmth and texture, while the adjacent rooms are grounded with rugged flagstone flooring, which continues seamlessly onto the front and rear terraces.

Elevating the Upper Floor

On the upper level, the architects utilized the new dormer to house a spacious bathroom that balances privacy with natural light through the careful placement of windows. Without altering the number of bedrooms, the renovation created an additional office space and a separate toilet, enhancing the family’s functionality and future flexibility.

Energy Efficiency and Modern Comfort

Beyond aesthetics, Villa ABC underwent a significant energy upgrade. Outdated systems were replaced with sustainable, energy-efficient solutions, including a heat pump, underfloor heating, and air conditioning to ensure year-round comfort. High-performance aluminum windows were installed, meeting strict EPB energy regulations and improving insulation. A mechanical ventilation system (System D) was integrated to provide optimal indoor air quality.

Harmonizing Old and New

The exterior renovation respects the home’s original character while introducing contemporary elements. The new volume features anodized aluminum fixed panels, while the opening windows retain a contrasting dark blue color — a subtle nod to the home’s original joinery. The exterior design is marked by stripped-down structural elements and an exposed roof structure, with lower walls replaced by thoughtfully crafted outdoor features such as a concrete bench and flower planter.

A Home That Grows With Its Residents

The renovation of Villa ABC is a testament to how thoughtful architectural design can adapt to a family’s evolving lifestyle. By prioritizing functionality, comfort, and aesthetic harmony, Objekt Architecten has not only created a home that meets the practical needs of its residents but also crafted a space that enhances their daily experience — where the kitchen becomes the social core, where every window frames a meaningful view, and where old and new coexist gracefully.

All Photographs are works of Ypsilon Business Photography