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APARTMENT INTERIOR

IN MOLENBEEK

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Site: Finstraat 15B, 1080 Brussels

Client: Natural Born Architects

Architect: Exterior ECTV architects

Surface: 150 m2

Budget: 60 000€

Timing: 2012-2015

Status: inhabited

Photos: Kristien Daem

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The Natural Born Architects headquarters are located in an awarded building designed by ECTV architects. The duplex apartment was bought as a shell so we had the opportunity to design our own interior. Given the limited budget, some pragmatic decisions were made: concrete ceilings and walls were left visible, brick walls were painted as they were. In order to maximize the spatial quality of the original layout of the spaces, the interventions in the design were limited to a few strategically designed volumes in plywood, able to host the key functions of the apartment. 

 

On the second floor, a central wooden volume organizes the space, while including an entrance hall, a toilet, storage, kitchen and a ceiling high bookcase. A similar wooden volume on the first floor incorporates the bathroom and two sleeping alcoves for the kids. The central volume organizes the space around it, minimizing circulation while providing enough privacy. The walk around this volume becomes a true discovery full of playful details, hidden corners, and unexpected see-through perspectives. Finally, a third wooden volume includes a half-open wooden staircase with storage underneath.

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The simplicity of the materials contrasts with the sculptural moulding of the volumes. The range of materials and the accuracy of execution aim to emphasize the pureness, warmth and sincerity of the design while referring to craftsmanship in a contemporary context.