Dutch practice OYO has breathed new life into a neglected house in Belgium, transforming its interiors with rich wood finishes and aligning it more closely with the natural beauty of the surrounding dunes.
Named Dune House, this residence is partially nestled within its sandy landscape and has undergone a significant renovation by OYO to meet contemporary living standards while strengthening its bond with the environment.
The redesign also honors the home’s original character and framework, which suffered damage from World War II bombings and was later rebuilt in timber during the 1960s. Access to Dune House is gained via a charming exterior brick staircase that leads to the first floor.
Here, a spacious open-plan living area awaits, featuring expansive sliding glass doors that seamlessly connect the interior to an outdoor terrace overlooking a heated swimming pool. The terrace, framed by striking blue columns, serves as both an outdoor dining area and a sheltered space for an outdoor shower located beneath it.
The revamped ground floor houses the bedrooms, along with a family bathroom and utility space. Wood takes center stage throughout Dune House, with the warm hues of the exposed timber paneling fostering a “cozy and inviting ambiance,” according to OYO. Custom-designed features include built-in storage and window seats, perfect for the family’s young children to enjoy as cozy reading corners.
OYO Architects described the house as being partially nestled within the dunes, which lends it a more compact appearance while still offering the luxury of two levels.
“The open living area blurs the lines between indoors and outdoors, with sliding doors that can fully retract to connect with the elevated terrace,” the studio elaborated. “These design choices create a sense of spaciousness for guests, despite the home’s modest footprint.”
While the internal timber framework of Dune House has been largely retained, the exterior has been modernized with enhanced insulation and thermowood cladding.
The roof features solar panels discreetly tucked behind raised eaves that mirror the original roofline. Additionally, a groundwater heat pump and solar boiler system provide heating for both the residence and the outdoor swimming pool.