- Architecture & development
A penthouse reminiscent of the spacious, open villas in Hollywood with their beautiful views? You don't have to travel that far for that. After all, thanks to natural stone specialist Beltrami and the architectural firm of Gerd De Winne, this apartment building in Aalst was given an extremely glamorous appearance.
The residential complex called 'Het Veen' consists of eighteen apartments, spread over three floors. But the penthouse on the fourth floor is both literally and figuratively the highlight of this project. Innovative techniques and exclusive materials create a home that will make you forget for a moment that you are just in East Flanders. To begin with, the architect chose the Chinese limestone Bluestone in the rough Stoneskin finish, for the cladding of the facade. This looks modern, but is still in harmony with the surroundings.
The glass walls of the penthouse, together with the glass fence of the terrace and the glass wall of the swimming pool, also create a flowing and seemingly unlimited transition to that green environment. The complete flooring of the terrace, as well as the edge and stairs of the pool are also made of the beige Egyptian limestone Sinai Pearl. This uniformity contributes to the optical illusion of infinite spaciousness. This feeling is a luxury in a city like Aalst that is becoming increasingly crowded.
"Innovative techniques and exclusive materials create a home that will make you forget for a moment that you are just in East Flanders."
A third type of stone that Beltrami provided for this project is the Bianco America, a white marble - from the USA - that was used to floor the bathroom and kitchen. This natural stone provides an exclusive and luxurious interior. Although the colour palette inside is quite neutral and was used a lot of glass (partition walls, shower), it is still warm and cosy. Hollywood vibes, even on rainy days.
Architect: Gerd De Winne, Architectenburo De Winne B.V.B.A. - gerd@dewinne.be
Floor Finishing: Verbeke Vloerafwerkingen BVBA
Photographer: Gerald Van Rafelghem