Papenhof

Papenhof

2017

Location

Mechelen, Belgium

Client

IGEMO

Typology

Residential

Size

172 m²

Status

Competition (Winner)

Partnerships

tc plus, COBE ingenieurs, Casquo, Studio Timber

When designing a terraced house the illusion stands that it can only be defined by its boundaries. More than often this leads to merely separation of spaces without added value in spatial quality, light characteristics and fluid space.

By disconnecting from the existing boundaries and connecting towards the neighbourhood, engaging in possibilities for exchange with the direct exterior surroundings, something interesting happens. The transition from the public street towards the intimacy of the back garden arranges a whole new type of floor plan, allowing for natural light, unifying spaces and a surprising flexibility.

Future design principles help define the terraced house to be flexible and simple in its layout while giving the possibility to change the individual and collective areas within the house.

A sustainable, futureproof design within a circular economy doesn’t exclude spatial quality, various vistas and abundancy in natural light. It defines the possibility for a house to grow, open for what the future will hold, to create a home for what the users needs might be.

.