Architect Jim Dierckx preserves the character of a heritage townhouse in Ixelles, Belgium through an interplay between traditional and contemporary design.
The owners of MB Residence called on Belgian architect Jim Dierckx to reinstate the townhouse’s original character and charm as part of a complete redesign.”The character had been completely stripped away in previous renovations,” Dierckx reflects. “We wanted the home to evoke a sense of atmosphere, warmth, and light, with each room offering its own distinct ambience,” he adds.
Traditional details were emphasised throughout the home with refined, simplified panelling and high ceilings, while arched doors and passages were designed to maintain the original proportions. The initial layout was entirely open-plan, so forming distinct zones was essential to create intimate yet coherent spaces indicative of a traditional townhouse. “While the spaces were designed to flow into one another, it was important that they can also be closed off for privacy,” Dierckx says.
Each zone is designed to serve a different part of the day, mirrored in the soft and subtle material palette. The kitchen and dining area is designed as the functional ‘day-time’ space, featuring Carrara and Breccia Viola marble, Belgian Blue stone flooring and bronze hardware. In contrast to the dining space, which features a custom-designed walnut dining table, linen banquette seating and vintage timber chairs, stainless steel finishes were introduced throughout the kitchen and pantry to evoke an industrial, “atelier-like atmosphere,” Dierckx says.
The kitchen combines contemporary and traditional design, pairing stainless steel finishes and a focal oven range with classic detailing.
The living area, designed as a relaxing ‘evening’ space, features oak quatre carré-patterned flooring and a focal antique French Languedoc marble mantelpiece. The mantelpiece, alongside vintage French side tables and coffee tables, creates the impression that it has always been part of the space.
Contrasting the classic backdrop and soft curves, the inclusion of the streamlined Fritz Hansen PK22 chair and the Daphine Terra Led floor lamp—both European design staples—exemplify Dierckx’s ethos of blending classic and contemporary design elements.
Designed to exude a sense of grandeur from entry, MB Residence is a testament to Dierckx’s commitment to heritage preservation. “This home reflects the importance of maintaining character when renovating classic urban residences, allowing us to create this home as if it has always existed,” he adds.
The custom-designed walnut dining table and linen banquette are paired with vintage dining chairs, contrasting with the modern stainless steel in the kitchen.
The Daphine Terra Led floor lamp sits next to an antique French marble mantelpiece in the living area.
The home library functions as a transitional, communal space between the ‘day’ and ‘night’ spaces.
The use of oak quatre carré-patterned flooring throughout the living spaces reinforces the home’s heritage.
