OYO huis in de duinen c Karen Van der Biest 147

Re-imagining a historic building: A sustainable retreat in the Belgian Dunes

The starting point of the design process was to maintain the unique character of this historical building, which boasted the original optimal orientation and clever layout, and preserve it as much as possible. Most of the wooden interior structure was retained, while the old wooden panels on the facade were replaced with insulation and Thermo-treated wooden planks.

The roof was also renovated, with the roof edge raised slightly so that the newly installed solar panels appeared to be sunken into the roof. This gave a more sober facade and finish, with the aim of integrating the house more with the nature of the dunes. The entrance to the house remained the same, accessible via the brick outdoor staircase.

  • Client: Private
  • Location: Oostduinkerke, Belgium
  • Category: Home
  • Program: Private Residence
  • Status: Completed
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Respect for the existing. A regenerative attitude.

The challenge is to renovate the house with its history and potential in mind, while maintaining its authenticity. We aim for minimal spatial and visual impact on the environment, but with a maximum positive impact on the residents' experience.

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OYO huis in de duinen c Karen Van der Biest 126
Dune house existing
Existing house

This wooden structure, together with the remnants of the original house, now form the basis for a further transformation and regeneration of this location

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OYO huis in de duinen c Karen Van der Biest 165
OYO huis in de duinen c Karen Van der Biest 172
Harmonious With Nature

Together with the residents, we adhere to the principle of preserving as much as possible of the original house and integrating it into nature in a modest way. The use of sustainable, natural materials such as wood for finishing enhances that feeling. Additionally, the house is half embedded in the dunes, making it seem more compact but still providing the comfort of two floors.

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OYO huis in de duinen c Karen Van der Biest 131
OYO huis in de duinen c Karen Van der Biest 24

Smart architectural interventions enhance the residents' living comfort in various ways. A garden-side canopy provides a sheltered terrace for relaxing and prevents overheating. The bedrooms on the lower level offer greater intimacy and remain cool during summer. The master bedroom also features an outdoor shower terrace.

Dune house drawing 1
Groundfloor with a bedroom
Dune house drawing 2
First floor with the living room and kitchen
Home feeling
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Warm wood interiors and greenery create a cosy and welcoming atmosphere. Smart storage solutions such as built-in closets and roof beam spaces add to the comfortable feel of the house. The window seats are a popular spot for children to read and play while basking in natural daylight.

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OYO huis in de duinen c Karen Van der Biest 194
Sustainability approach

Sustainability is at the heart of this home's design. We've installed a geothermal heat pump and solar boiler system to produce warm water and generate energy from the sun. The surplus energy is stored in a battery pack for later use.

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Passive strategies like the canopy and efficient geothermal cooling installation help to keep the home cool in summer. And even the swimming pool is heated sustainably, with wall and floor heating in the basin. With these eco-friendly technologies, this home is a true oasis in the dunes, where sustainability and comfort go hand in hand.

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Team
Veroniek Vanhaecke, Hoi Kee Man, Francesco Caratti, Giovanni Bergamo, Eva Delrue
Credits

Pictures: Karen Van der Biest

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