Ganda

Architects Maarten Baeye and Karen Kesteloot transformed the former Café De Bonte Koe and the adjoining shop into a family home with office. On the one hand, the preservation of original elements conveys authenticity and reflects the work of the architects. There are a few references to the building’s former identity, including the café bar with beer pumps, authentic doors, panelling and original tiled floor. On the other hand, the architects paid specific attention to the creation of high-quality spaces, through selective dismantling and strategic changes. Timely additions are limited and constitute a subtle transition between old and new. The interplay between the two mirrored houses creates flexibility, rooms full of character and surprising mutual associations. The outdoor spaces are also interpreted as rooms. Where the café kitchen and toilets used to be, there is now a winter garden. Roof terraces act as outdoor playrooms for children.

This project was opened on the occasion of the 2017 Day of Architecture.