OYO has renovated a home into the Dune House in Ghent, Belgium. Designed in 2021, the project includes a sustainable approach with a ground water heat pump and solar panels. Key features include a raised roof edge and sleek black-stained wooden planks. The half-embedded structure preserves the historical character while integrating modern comfort, providing an oasis with geothermal cooling and smart storage solutions.

The existing house (photos on the right) has a rich history: it was bombed during World War II and only the half-buried floor with the bedrooms survived. In the 1960s, the upper floor was rebuilt in wood.

Respect for the existing. A regenerative attitude.
The starting point of the design process was to maintain the unique character of this historical building, which boasted the original optimal orientation and clever layout, and preserve as much as possible. The majority of the wooden interior structure was retained, while the old wooden panels on the facade were replaced with insulation and sleek black-stained wooden planks.
The roof was also renovated, with the roof edge raised slightly so that the newly installed solar panels appeared to be sunken into the roof. This gave a more sober facade and finish, with the aim of integrating the house more with the nature of the dunes. The entrance to the house remained the same, accessible via the brick outdoor staircase.

The challenge
The challenge is to renovate the house with its history and potential in mi...