A low environmental impact home for seniors.

A home should be forever, so it needs to be able to adapt to the changing needs of its inhabitants. Belgium-based firm of architects, Blanco Architecten has come up with a new home that not only respects the environment but it also considers its ageing owners.



Designing for senior citizens does not just stop with institutions, it concerns any far-sighted homeowner, like the clients of Belgium-based firm Blanco Architecten. So the brief for the architects was to come up with aesthetically pleasing, low energy design solutions customised for use as the owners age, also facilitating wheelchairs.





The home has a nearly square footprint and the spaces have been designed on a single level and all connecting. The sensation of open space is strengthened by a central patio.



This patio allows natural light into the home as well as providing it with a cosy retreat; the large windows in the living zone offer great views over the Oud-Heverlee countryside.



The dark brick façade follows the local tradition where a creative interpretation of zoning regulations sees a pitched roof directed inwards towards the patio.





The low energy use home is surprisingly spacious inside because there are no bulky furnishings like wardrobes. What the architects did was to create an equipped wall along the diagonal hallway. This hides storage areas and facilities as well as providing access to the guest room – clearly separating the open area from the closed one.



A home where you can feel “forever young” and that is turned into “child’s play”.

Project: Blanco Architecten http://www.blanco-architecten.be
Surface: 242,50m²
Year: 2011
Location: Oud-Heverlee, Belgium
Photos: Kristel Merckx http://www.kristelmerckx.com