Structurally Boxy

By Marina Correa 

Photography: Courtesy the architect

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With an increasingly growing desire for a quiet space to withdraw and contemplate, Egide Meertens decided to add a library and presentation area to his existing office in Belgium  - after seven long years...

The connection between the office and the expansion occur perpendicular to the existing staircase, where the library and presentation area is cocooned inside a beautiful loft space.

  

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This was achieved by placing a cross beam volume perpendicular to the old office; the large rear glass section was specifically positioned in such a way that it looks out onto the vast Haspengouw landscape ensuring due privacy to the neighbours.

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“Although there was no provision for extending the building, we opted for a light structure. Other than the ring beam and making two stairwells, there were no other structural changes,” says Egide Meertens, principal architect, Egide Meertens Architecten.

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So as not to disturb the functioning of the office, the project was given a strict deadline of three months and the use of a pre-fabricated aluminum skeleton helped towards completion within the given timeframe.

 

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Meticulous attention to detail comes through the treatment of light and ventilation, built-in plinths, window frames integrated into the floor, silicon glazing done on windows, etc. Known for his proclivity in using fair forms, lasting and sober materials in creating a high experience value resulting in reliable and simple architecture for his clients, the architect has followed the same rule in his office and extension as well.

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Designed in a simplistic and linear way, bordering on austerity, the library blends in with the rest of the office beautifully, partly due to its contrasting use of materials such as light and dark; warm and cold; rough and smooth; old  and new - making it indeed a space to reflect, brainstorm and share ideas; with nature as its glorious backdrop.