LIVING INDIVIDUAL HOUSING - NORTHERN EUROPE

The Bloembollen project in Lochristi, Belgium, designed by Van Ryzeghem, involved the creation of two semi-detached single-family houses that form one architectural unit. The plot was split under strict conditions, ensuring the houses were built simultaneously using identical materials. One of the key conditions was that no two front doors would be visible from the street, maintaining a unified appearance. The 17-meter width of each plot and the south-west orientation allowed for an innovative layout, with the ground floors shaped in an L-formation around private courtyards.

The upper floors are rotated to optimize sunlight in the courtyards, creating a dynamic, playful volume effect. The homes are separated from the street by a claustra wall, which provides filtered views and ensures privacy. A large window assembly at the rear, measuring 7.60 meters, uses expansive glazing to maximize natural light and connect seamlessly to the garden. Symmetry played a crucial role in the design, with perfect alignment between the mullions on both the front and rear facades.

One of the core focuses of the project is sustainability, with both houses achieving a negative E-level, indicating they generate more energy than they consume. This was achieved with well-insulated structures, heat pumps, and solar panels, as well as careful material selection that prioritises durability and environmental impact.

For the windows and sliding doors, aluminium systems have been installed such as Avantis Smartline SHI for the windows and Confort Smartline Sliding Monorail for the sliding doors. These systems were chosen for their sleek design, which complements the minimalist aesthetic of the houses. The glass-on-glass corner units and large expanses of glass enhance the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, ensuring abundant natural light throughout.

Precision was key to this project, particularly when it came to the large glass surfaces and maintaining symmetry in the design.

The Bloembollen project demonstrates how modern residential architecture can balance privacy, aesthetics, and sustainability. The design’s careful integration of natural light, energy efficiency, and architectural symmetry makes it a standout example of contemporary housing that is both innovative and environmentally conscious.