When Marc and Ann approached Hé Architectuur with plans to renovate their 1990s turnkey farmhouse in Belgium’s Pajottenland region sustainably, the project initially seemed routine. The couple, both working in the social sector, had raised their two daughters in this typical Flemish ‘fermette’—one of countless suburban homes that dot the Belgian landscape.

But what started as a straightforward renovation brief evolved into something far more significant: an exploration of how Belgium’s ubiquitous suburban housing might adapt for the future.

The original house had lost its connection to the surrounding hilly landscape, leaving Marc and Ann feeling disconnected from nature despite their rural setting. Their vision was clear: create an open, sustainable home centred around an earth stove, suitable for ageing in place. The renovation process became a community effort, involving many friends and family members.

Hé Architectuur’s initial response was lukewarm. These mass-produced homes typically fail to meet contemporary energy standards and aren’t considered architecturally valuable. However, the architects soon became fascinated by a compelling question: what could the future hold for this dominant housing typology?

The design strategy was radical yet logical. Rather than working within the existing layout, Hé chose to ‘cut open’ the house, breaking free from its conventional organisation. The approach focused on densification, making the home more compact and efficient.

The transformation began with converting the daughters’ former bedrooms into a winter garden, bordered by a substantial rammed earth wall. This thermal mass creates a natural climate buffer, absorbing and radiating solar heat during cooler periods while providing cooling relief in summer. The once-separate hallway and office now flow together as a generous living space that opens directly onto this light-filled winter garden.

The former entrance hall has been reimagined as an intimate seating area surrounding the new earthen stove, which replaced the old oil boiler and now provides central heating. Meanwhile, the original garage serves as the home’s new entry point.

Interior finishes reflect the architects’ commitment to natural materials. The previously white walls now feature rich red clay plaster, creating warmth and visual connection to the earth-built elements. On the ground floor, a spacious bedroom and compact bathroom support the couple’s plans for lifelong living.

OMLOOP demonstrates how thoughtful intervention can transform suburban housing without demolition. By densifying the existing footprint and strengthening connections to landscape and climate, Hé Architectuur has created a compelling model for sustainable suburban renewal.

[Images courtesy of Hé Architectuur. Photography by Tim Van De Velde.]