G-House
In a former working-class neighbourhood in the 19th-century belt around Ghent, AE-architecten transformed a dilapidated 1960s row house into a contemporary compact flexible dwelling. The elements that were still in good condition were retained and the addition of new elements took optimal account of the qualities present on the site. For example, the north-south orientation provided for the introduction of specific canopies such as the cantilevered roof on the south side on the one hand and, on the other, a large window on the 2nd floor on the north side provides the relationship with the old maple trees across the street. The direct contact with the crowns of the trees allows the dynamics of the seasons to be drawn into the house to the maximum extent.
The transformation was done mainly by using robust and honest materials, such as construction bricks, concrete blocks and green MDF paneling that remain visible at all times. Wooden elements such as the joinery, facade cladding and construction timber that were exposed to rain during the construction phase were dematerialized with paint or oil. Great importance has been attached to detail and tactile elements such as wooden handles on the stairs and wooden door handles.
Structurally, a rhythm of piers was laid out on the ground floor, reinforcing the existing structure but also allowing future extension of the house and providing the support for the structure to which the hanging wooden floor joists are attached.
