In cities where historical buildings have stood for decades, it can be difficult to create a new space among the homes that already stand. Even when designers aren’t worried about matching the aesthetics and facades of the other homes on the street, they still have to consider their space carefully and, in most cases, they have to build upward! That was the case with this CAS 48 House and the final product, though wedged between two very different buildings, is simply stunning.
CAS 48 House is a single-family house that was built and designed by architectural firm Urban Platform in 2013. Located in the heart of Brussels, Belgium, this house extends just as high as any around it, but it still stands out thanks to its sleek and much more contemporary exterior design. Perhaps the most noticeable feature from the street is the gorgeous picture window set into the middle of the top floor, jutting out from the rest of the facade in it’s own box frame.
Inside the house, behind the picture window, you’ll find a gleaming, modern work space that fully harnesses the bright light pouring in through the glass. Modern photographic art, a shining finished floor, and contemporary decor and furnishings set the tone for the room, making it feel like teh most stylish of offices right at home.
As you travel upwards in the house, things become more casual and homey despite still incorporating modern elements like crystal clear glass railings by the stairs. Wooden floors replace the shining linoleum from below, but the furniture stays modern and interestingly shaped.
The concept of harnessing natural light from the windows doesn’t just stop at the big front feature. That’s because the windows around the back might actually be even more attention grabbing! From the outside, you can see that they sit at subtle angles, appearing just off kilter enough to be interesting but not so crooked as to be visually annoying. on the inside, each of these windows creates a nook in a family room or bedroom that’s filled with comfortable sunshine.
Photos courtesy of Urban Platform
