Belgian architecture studio FELT has overhauled a Mid-Century Bungalow in Ghent, introducing a vibrant, blue ceramic tile tower to reorganize the interior of a traditional modernist residence. The project, located in a leafy suburb of the Belgian city, sought to adapt a mid-20th-century villa for the needs of a contemporary family. By inserting a singular vertical element into the original horizontal composition, the architects have resolved a complex circulation layout while adding a bold, sculptural landmark to the site.
The original modernist bungalow was defined by two offset horizontal slabs that created a disjointed flow between the living and sleeping quarters. FELT’S intervention centers on a slender, split-level staircase housed within the new vertical addition. This vertical tower serves as a “circulation knot,” effectively stitching the various levels together. Clad in glossy, deep-blue glazed tiles, the structure acts as a light well, funneling sunshine into the core of the home and creating a sense of height that contrasts with the building’s low-slung profile.
Materiality plays a crucial role in the contemporary renovation, with the architects selecting finishes that reference the home’s history. The original, weathered timber window frames were replaced with rust-colored aluminum joinery. This specific shade was chosen to mimic the warmth of the original wood while providing a sharp, industrial finish. The interplay between the earthy red window frames and the cool, blue ceramic facade creates a sophisticated color story that allows the house to stand out against the surrounding Belgian landscape.
Inside, the residence has been completely “re-dressed” to reflect a minimalist interior design that remains sympathetic to mid-century modernism. The studio focused on a carefully tuned palette of natural materials and soft tones to bring coherence to the multi-level layout. The upper levels are now dedicated to private sleeping areas, while the primary living spaces occupy the ground floor. Additionally, a semi-underground floor was converted into a functional zone, providing extra space for utility and domestic life without expanding the building’s footprint.
The Ghent bungalow renovation is an exercise in “precise addition,” where a single, well-placed gesture transforms the utility of the entire house. Rather than a total demolition or a generic extension, the FELT architecture studio opted for a surgical approach that preserves the original character of the villa. The result is a modernist home update that feels both current and nostalgic, utilizing contemporary detailing to highlight the spatial qualities of the existing 1950s structure.
A vibrant pink-tiled bathroom reflects the home’s updated contemporary palette while maintaining a clear mid-century aesthetic.
By prioritizing clarity and light, the project offers a renewed appreciation of modernist ideas. The contrast between the heavy horizontal masonry and the light-catching ceramic cladding ensures the home remains a distinct piece of contemporary Belgian architecture. This refined family home stands as a testament to the power of small-scale interventions, proving that a thoughtful architectural dialogue between eras can result in a space that is both functional for today and respectful of yesterday.