RUBENS APARTMENT
RUBENS APARTMENT
An interior renovation that merges two apartments into one
Year → 2021
Status → Completed
Team → de baes architects
Area → 100 m²
This project combines two narrow apartments on Knokke's seafront into a single, cohesive residence. The apartments were set in an L-shaped configuration and beset by long, dark corridors and a warren of partitions. We worked with this spatial logic to separate public and private space while opening up the entire residence to views and natural light from three facades.
Adapting the existing spatial logic
The long L-shaped plan presented a natural opportunity to separate the public and private zones of the apartment. The area on the beach-facing facade contains living and entertaining spaces on an open plan. The bedrooms, bathrooms, and a private balcony occupy the perpendicular leg, where they enjoy privacy from the gathering areas.
Crafting a space of openness and light
Throughout the apartment, elements such as glass and mirrors engage in a play of perspectives and reflections. Transparent and reflective materials bring in extra light and dimension, creating the sensation of a bigger space. What used to be a dark and narrow corridor is now transformed into a cohesive transition between public and private spaces.
Fluted glass that lights up when used transforms the bathrooms into sources of illumination and transparency in the apartment. Recessed lighting emphasizes elements of the old structure, adding texture to the apartment and showcasing its historic charm.
Blending interior and exterior
The interior redesign works in conjunction with a building facade renovation that maximizes natural light and views. The faceted faces of the facade elements cut away pieces that would block the path of the sun or sightlines, enhancing the sense of connection between the apartments and the plaza, ocean, and sky.
The project is part of a larger renovation to maximize the value of the building that includes other apartment combinations and a comprehensive facade renovation.
