Archizinc Trophy 2014

Project ‘1 into 3’ offers an architectural response to the rapidly growing planning problem of the numerous oversized post-war houses that will become vacant in Flanders, as well as to the ambition of the government to increase dwelling density in urbanized areas.

Given the exceptional urban implantation, the most adequate approach for this project seemed a profound redevelopment. The preliminary study proved that a transformation into 3 dwellings could be obtained by situating the entrances on a new circulation axis that traverses the house and ends in a patio.

The design strategy entails a redefinition of several roof lines and the use – both on the roofs and the facades— of a uniform isolating cladding. This not only transforms the existing splintered situation into a single sculptural volume with a powerful presence, but also responds to the wish of the client to invest in low-energy rental housing.

The finishing with dark zinc merges the building with its green surroundings on which the client and some other neighbours have a view.

This project triples the dwelling density of the site without curtailing the privacy and dwelling quality of the inhabitants and the neighbours.