Architectural Cases

In the vibrant heart of Ghent, Belgium, a compelling architectural narrative unfolds with the completion of the Soberrijk House, a visionary project by Marge architecten. This contemporary residence, finished in 2023, occupies a 175-square-meter site that once lay dormant, a relic of a bygone era where a row of workers' houses stood before their demolition in the 1970s. For decades, this parcel of land remained an unintentional green space, undefined and unpurposed. However, a recent civic initiative sought to reintegrate this forgotten corner into the urban fabric, prompting the thoughtful and innovative design of Soberrijk House. The architects were tasked with crafting a structure that respects the historical void while establishing a new sense of place and belonging within the re-densified city block.

Soberrijk House: Integrating History and Modernity in Ghent's Urban Landscape

Situated in Ghent, Belgium, the Soberrijk House, conceived by Marge architecten and completed in 2023, represents a significant urban infill project. The site, historically occupied by workers' residences that were razed in the 1970s, had since become an unmanaged green space. The city's decision to revitalize this area provided the impetus for the creation of Soberrijk House. The architectural firm Marge architecten, led by Steven Schreurs, embraced the challenge of designing a home that not only provides modern living spaces but also acknowledges and respects the site's past. The residence, covering an area of 175 square meters, showcases a sophisticated use of materials including steel, alongside products from manufacturers like Reynaers Aluminium, Grohe, RENSON, and Wienerberger, emphasizing both durability and aesthetic appeal. The design team, including structural engineers Kurt Laeremans and safety consultants 2BSafe, meticulously crafted a structure that integrates seamlessly into the restored building block. The house stands as a testament to thoughtful urban development, transforming a neglected plot into a vibrant, functional, and architecturally compelling residential space that enriches the surrounding community.

The Soberrijk House stands as an inspiring example of how contemporary architecture can respectfully engage with historical contexts. It demonstrates that reclaiming dormant urban spaces offers a unique opportunity to enhance community vitality and promote sustainable development. This project encourages architects and urban planners to look beyond the immediate void and envision a future where every piece of the urban puzzle contributes to a richer, more cohesive living environment. The transformation of an accidental green patch into a purposeful dwelling highlights the potential for innovative design to bridge historical gaps and forge new connections within the city.

This architectural endeavor by 127af focuses on the renovation of a family residence in Bagnolet, France, addressing the evolving needs of its inhabitants. The dwelling, initially part of a row of four terraced homes that originated as humble workshops, reflects a common urban narrative of adaptive reuse. These structures, built with basic materials, have been progressively transformed into family houses, embodying a delicate balance between preserving their historical character and adapting to contemporary living demands.

The original layout of the house featured a single living area on the ground floor, with two restricted bedrooms and a bathroom located in the attic, where the ceiling height posed a significant challenge, ranging from a mere 1 meter to 1.80 meters. The project was initiated by the clients' desire to expand the attic to create more spacious living quarters, a necessity driven by the arrival of their second child. This expansion required a careful alteration of the roof structure to maximize usable space, underscoring a thoughtful approach to enhancing both the functionality and comfort of the home.

The transformation of this small worker's house into a more expansive and comfortable family residence demonstrates the potential for creative architectural solutions in urban settings. It highlights how existing, seemingly constrained spaces can be reimagined and adapted to meet modern family requirements, fostering a sense of growth and renewal within historical urban fabrics. This project serves as an inspiring example of how architecture can contribute to improving quality of life, demonstrating that even the most modest beginnings can lead to grand transformations that uplift and enrich communities.