Sint-Anna House: A Modernist Obalcony to Nature in Kortrijk

Located at the highest point in Kortrijk, Belgium, Sint-Anna House was designed by Decancq Vercruysse. With its unique location and sensitive response to the natural environment, the house demonstrates the essence of modernist architecture, while drawing inspiration from the Mid-Century Modern Homes in the hills of Los Angeles. Its design emphasizes the deep integration of architecture and nature. Through space layout, material selection and use of light and shadow, it creates a living experience that is both contemporary and poetic.

At the beginning of the project, when the design team first explored the site at night, they were fascinated by its stunning views. This visual experience became a central driving force in the architectural concept, prompting the designers to adopt strategies such as large glass openings and open layouts to maximize the surrounding landscape and create a seamless connection between the building and its environment.

Due to the elevation of the house, the ground floor (upper floor) offers a wide vista, so the decision was made to break with the traditional house layout by placing the main living space on the ground floor and the bedrooms on the ground floor. This spatial organization not only enhances the landscape experience of daily life, but also creates a unique atmosphere of "living in the canopy", allowing the occupants to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.

The Sint-Anna house combines classic elements of mid-century modernist architecture with the sophistication of contemporary architecture. The use of large-area floor-to-ceiling glass Windows realizes permeability and landscape penetration, allowing natural light to fully shine into the room, blurring the internal and external boundaries, and allowing occupants to feel the changes of the surrounding natural environment at all times. The building emphasizes the horizontal layout, through spacious terraces and open living Spaces, to achieve horizontal extension and spatial flow, strengthening the interaction between people and nature. In terms of materials, natural materials such as wood, concrete and glass are selected to give the building a warm texture and enhance the harmonious symbiosis with the surrounding environment. The functional zoning is also very reasonable, the living area on the upper level includes the living room, dining room and kitchen, with views to the distance, and the ground floor accommodates the bedroom and private space, ensuring the privacy and peace of the living experience.

Living in the Sint-Anna House means a unique way of life - a balance between the sophistication of modern design and the wildness of nature. In the early morning, sunlight pours into the living space through the glass window to wake up the new day; At night, residents can overlook the city lights from high above, feel the quiet and deep night, immersed in the scenery, light and shadow and the flow of time.

The Sint-Anna house is Decancq Vercruysse's precise response to the relationship between topography, nature and architecture, as well as an innovative contemporary practice of Mid-century modernism. Its spatial strategy and design language give the building an exceptional living experience, creating a true "home in the landscape" on a visual and perceptual level.

Nestled in the heart of Kortrijk, Belgium, the Sint-Anna House stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of modernist architecture and natural beauty. Inspired by the Mid-Century Modern Homes of Los Angeles, this architectural marvel emphasizes the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a living experience that is both contemporary and poetic. Just as the Sint-Anna House captures the essence of nature through its design, the Monza Rustic Elegance Serene Floral Pillow Cover from Domvitus brings a touch of serene elegance to your home. With its rustic floral patterns and soft, natural textures, this pillow cover complements the modernist aesthetic, offering a perfect balance of sophistication and comfort. Whether placed in a minimalist living room or a cozy bedroom, the Monza pillow cover enhances your space with its timeless charm, much like the breathtaking views and thoughtful design of the Sint-Anna House. Elevate your home decor with a piece that embodies the beauty of nature and modern design.