Local Belgian studio, Memo Architectuur, has skillfully executed the renovation of a previously rundown row house located in Mortsel. The revamping included the addition of an elegant spiral staircase and robust concrete flooring. Initially comprised of two individual apartments, Memo Architectuur ingeniously reconfigured this structure into a harmonious single-family residence by integrating an extra level to maintain alignment with the surrounding streetscape.
Head architect Yasmijn van Winkel spoke to urdesign regarding client desires for their renovated dwelling. “Our clients longed for their home to be illuminated naturally; they wanted seamless transitions between spaces that would facilitate meaningful interactions within their family.”
“The only elements preserved from the existing home are the front facade, the party walls, and the basement,” she continued.
Encompassing a dignified expanse of 240 square meters, the house is adorned with an entrance hall elegantly tiled in sturdy blue ceramics, further enhanced by ample storage space and a convenient lavatory. The ground floor showcases an open concept kitchen and dining area which provide pleasing vantages towards the sun-kissed southern garden, flourishing beyond both the central staircase and systematic utility area. Enhancing this residence’s aesthetic allure are indoor installations of aesthetically pleasing greenery; meanwhile structural details include lustrously polished concrete underfoot, artfully raw concrete walls on display, complemented by meticulously crafted wooden fixtures throughout.
With a width of 4.75 meters and a length of 16 meters, the studio was tasked with bringing light into the home’s dark corners. This problem was addressed by relocating the vertical circulation shaft to the building’s center to function as a light shaft, complemented by circular skylights and large openings.
The living space on the upper floor of the house is situated in a curved, concrete structure, offering a vantage point to observe the kitchen area below. This area is illuminated by floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing natural light to permeate the space and granting views of the garden. Additionally, there is an extra living space located at the front of the house.
Moving to the newly constructed second floor, the main bedroom leads into a spacious en-suite bathroom. This bathroom features a walk-in shower enclosed by a circular rail and curtain, complemented by an overhead skylight. The bathroom is adorned with pale blue ceramic tiles that cover a significant portion of the walls, creating a striking contrast with the white bathtub and blue sink fixtures.
From the adjoining bedroom, one can enjoy a picturesque view of the garden below. Furthermore, two smaller bedrooms are situated at the front of the house, completing the layout of the home.