The GD Townhouses project by Merckx-Holvoet Architects, features two houses in the heart of Kortrijk, Belgium that were conceived to address the challenge of a south-facing street orientation. The goal was to flood the interiors with natural light while maintaining privacy for the residents.
Loggias stretching across the entire width of the building mediate between the private interior spaces and the vibrant city, offering screened outdoor areas and a buffer from the street. The structure of the building combines in-situ concrete with a brick façade, complemented by precast concrete soffits and sills. The exposed concrete features an aggregate finish that matches the tone of plaster on the bricks, creating a seamless and cohesive appearance.
The main living spaces are located on the first floor, designed as a classic piano nobile, while the bedroom en-suites occupy the upper floors. The lower ground floor includes two office spaces, both with direct access to the walled gardens. The interior presents an air of understated simplicity: white plastered walls, wooden floors, and a carefully curated selection of iconic furniture by Axel Einar Hjorth, Pierre Chapo, Gerrit Rietveld, and Jo Hammerborg. These pieces lend a sense of raw tactility that juxtaposes beautifully with the pristine finishes. Soft grey textures and reclaimed wood in varying tones blend harmoniously with the minimalist palette, crafting a tranquil sanctuary in contrast with the bustling city outside.
Artworks by Robin Rhode, Jannis Kounellis, Takis, Walter Leblanc, and Marie-Jo Lafontaine inject a dynamic and playful energy, enriching the spaces with layers of creativity and depth. These works elevate the interiors beyond mere functionality, reflecting a thoughtful dialogue between art and design.
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