Project Name: Project DT
Architecture Firm: JUMA architects
Location: Sint-Martens-Latem, Belgium
Completion Year: 2020
Project location: Brussels, Belgium
Lead Architects: Mathieu Luyens & Julie van De Keere
Photo credits: Annick Vernimmen
Description from architects JUMA architects:
The old mansion in Brussels had already been entirely dismantled on the inside when we were asked to renovate and enlarge it.
In fact, we were the second architectural firm to be commissioned for this project. The previous architect had already stripped the building and carried out a number of structural interventions. The client, however, was not satisfied with the design and asked us to take over the project. As a result, quite a few structural works had to be carried out first. With the exception of the foundations and the pool, the entire rear side of the structure was demolished again.
The previous interventions had to a large degree affected the original charm of the mansion. In order to restore the house to its former glory, the client wanted new ornaments installed in several places on the walls, on the ceilings and around the interior doors.
The majestic staircase in the hall was extended towards the second floor.
©Annick Vernimmen ©Annick Vernimmen ©Annick Vernimmen
The classic mouldings contrast sharply with the stark architecture of the rear façade, whose main function is to let as much light as possible into the house. This was successfully achieved through the installation of 3,80 meters-high ‘minimal windows’in the kitchen and living room spaces.
Ample natural light had to be drawn into the basement level as well, as this space houses a fully equipped spa, replete with a 15,5 meters-long indoor pool, a sauna, a massage room and a gym. Four large skylights cut into the upper terrace floor illuminate the pool. By lowering the terrain, it now seems as if one could swim straight into the garden. This intervention has also made it possible to install large window sections, giving the multifunctional fitness space a better connection with the outdoors.
©Annick Vernimmen
©Annick Vernimmen
©Annick Vernimmen
©Annick Vernimmen
©Annick Vernimmen
©Annick Vernimmen
©Annick Vernimmen
The entire first floor was furnished as a master bedroom with its own dressing room, bathroom and desk and includes an extra space for another room and/or study nook as well. On the second floor, there are 4 other rooms with ensuite bathrooms.
The facade has been restored to its original state, yet the architects have subtly widened the entrance gate to allow a car to be driven in.
The interior of this old manor house in Brussels had already been completely dismantled when JUMA architects were asked to renovate and expand the building.
©Annick Vernimmen
©Annick Vernimmen
©Annick Vernimmen
©Annick Vernimmen
©Annick Vernimmen
©Annick Vernimmen
To restore the home to its former glory, JUMA have chosen to work with new ornaments in various places: on the walls, on the ceilings and around the interior doors. These classic mouldings contrast sharply with the sleek design of the remaining interior and the architecture of the rear façade.
The expansion in the back is dominated by a play of level differences and projecting volumes.
Above the indoor swimming pool there is a large roof terrace that provides direct access to the large city garden via a floating staircase. The high windows by the seating area and the kitchen bring in a tremendous amount of light which was an explicit wish of the client.
©Annick Vernimmen
©Annick Vernimmen
©Annick Vernimmen
©Annick Vernimmen
©Annick Vernimmen
More infor:
Lead Architects e-mail: [email protected]
Contact e-mail: [email protected]