An architect’s house, entirely focused on art, located near Antwerp, perfectly illustrates the union between architectural design and artistic space. This fascinating project, designed by architect Nicolas Schuybroek, presents itself as a heterotopia, a space outside of time where contemporary art finds its place at the heart of an interior that is both functional and aesthetic. With its unique ambiance, this house offers an immersive experience, where each room is an invitation to discover artworks that transcend conventions.
A Heterotopia at the Service of Contemporary Art
The term “heterotopia,” popularized by Michel Foucault, refers to those specific places that exist in rupture with the surrounding space. In the case of this architect’s house, heterotopia is embodied by its architectural design, which integrates all the elements of art and design desired by its passionate owners. Indeed, the couple’s request, passionate about contemporary art, was to create a space that could accommodate an impressive collection of pieces, ranging from Louise Bourgeois to Anish Kapoor.
The house begins with a massive architecture, a closed volume that protects and preserves the artistic universe within. By pushing the heavy steel front door, visitors enter a dreamlike world where every angle is designed to stimulate the imagination. For example, the main room is equipped with a low window that, far from being a simple opening, resembles an artwork frame, highlighting the garden and the outdoor environment.
An Impressive Collection
Inside, the artworks delicately intertwine with the architecture. On one wall, there is the monumental work of Anish Kapoor, “Untitled,” which becomes a centerpiece of the decor. Not far away, the sculpture by Louise Bourgeois, “Figure” (1960), engages in dialogue with a painting by Léon Spilliaert, “Bather by the Sea” (1910). These works radiate a particular aura, testifying to the owners’ passion for the dialogue between designed interiors and contemporary art.
- 🏛️ James Turrell – Illuminates the space with light plays highlighting the dialogue between light and architecture.
- 🔮 Roni Horn – Her sculpture “Circular Glass Block” (2011) is located near the window, attracting attention.
- 🖼️ Panayiotis Vassilakis, known as Takis, with his sculpture “Signal” (1959) adding a touch of modernity.
An Architecture with Mathematical Lines
Designed with a square base of 20 meters, the house adopts a rigorous architectural language. This formal choice evokes a mathematical concept, but it subtly tempers it with natural elements. The lush garden, both welcoming and calming, invites serenity, contrasting with the raw concrete facade. The house, while being a living space, has a story and a capacity for evolution that is in constant harmony with its environment.
The craftsmen hand-constructed the rammed earth facade, giving the house a unique and vibrant texture. This approach is part of a desire to create an ideal setting for the artistic works, while dismissing the idea of a frozen decor, typical of a museum.
Materials and Ambiance
The materials used are also carefully chosen for their durability and aesthetics: cement, gravel, and earth come together to create a warm environment. This choice is not limited to the visual aspect; it also provides practical advantages, creating a lively space that adapts and evolves over time.
The walls, dressed in a textured “bone” color, bring depth and warmth to each room. The architect intended for the interior to resonate with the outside world, creating a constant dialogue between light and art. The central atrium, bathed in natural light, thus becomes a gathering point that invites contemplation.
| Artist | Work | Year | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Louise Bourgeois | Figure | 1960 | Bronze sculpture symbolizing human vulnerability. |
| Anish Kapoor | Untitled | 1996 | Monumental work, playing with perception and light. |
| Roni Horn | Circular Glass Block | 2011 | Transparent sculpture adding an artistic dimension to the decor. |
A Symphony of Design and Art
The design of this house perfectly integrates with the architectural design, transforming everyday furniture and objects into true artworks. The owners, passionate about art, had not considered furniture as artistic elements until their meeting with the architect. Now, each piece of furniture is carefully selected, ranging from classic creations to pieces by contemporary designers. For example, the Zig Zag chair by Gerrit Rietveld, which is considered by some as a museum piece, finds its place in this harmonious interior.
This eclectic mixture brings warmth and diversity to the space, allowing those who inhabit this house to feel a deep connection with design and art. Renowned designers such as Pierre Jeanneret, with his refined creations, harmonize with more contemplative furniture pieces.
A Unique Atmosphere
In the living room, where creativity comes to life, James Turrell’s luminous work invites the inhabitants to a sensory experience. The bedroom, on the other hand, remains minimalistic, giving full space to art, with a remarkable painting by Megan Rooney. The bathroom has a mineral aesthetic, warmed by carefully chosen artworks.
Every space in this house plays a crucial role in the collective narrative created by the fusion of art and architecture. The kitchen, featuring an Axel Vervoordt table and individual chairs from famous designers, celebrates the beauty of natural materials such as walnut and volcanic gravel. A true tribute to craftsmanship and human creativity.
| Space | Features | Remarkable Works |
|---|---|---|
| Living Room | Bright ambiance | James Turrell – luminous work |
| Bedroom | Minimalist, art-oriented | Megan Rooney – living painting |
| Bathroom | Mineral aesthetic | Robert Mangold – significant work |
A Dialogue Between Art and Nature
This house stands out for its ability to establish a dialogue between art, nature, and the environment. The garden, rich and diverse, is designed to be an extension of the house itself. Every exterior element has been conceived to complement and enhance the interior art.
The owners chose to integrate carefully selected plants that interact with the artworks inside. In doing so, they create a living art space that stimulates the senses and encourages contemplation. Nature thus becomes an integral part of this house, making this place a true natural art gallery.
Continuous Evolution of the Artistic Space
The couple wishes for this space to be dynamic, adapting to the evolution of their collection. The flexibility of the house allows for the accommodation of new works without compromising the existing harmony. This ability to evolve evokes a true art gallery, where each exhibition is a moment to celebrate.
- 🌿 Integration of Nature – Fluid movements between the inside and the outside.
- 🎨 Art Exhibition – A living space where the artworks change.
- 🏡 Art Space – A house, a gallery, a total experience.
FAQ
1. Which artists are present in the house?
The house houses works by prestigious contemporary artists such as Louise Bourgeois, Anish Kapoor, and James Turrell, rich in meaning and emotion.
2. What does the term heterotopia mean in relation to this house?
It designates a place that stands out from its environment and that, through its architecture and design, invites a unique artistic experience.
3. How does the architecture of the house support the art collection?
The structure was designed not to resemble a museum, fostering an environment where art can live and evolve, while being showcased.
4. What materials were used in the construction of the house?
Materials such as artisan concrete, earth, and gravel are used to create a warm and durable ambiance.
5. Is this house open to the public?
Currently, it is not a public destination but a private home, which can occasionally transform into a gallery for artistic events.
