Fiat Lux

A punctual intervention, centred on the heart of a traditional townhouse in Brussels, gave to this dwelling an outstanding character. Transparency, reflections and connections between the differents levels determine the daily routine of the large family living in. From the first floor, the stairwell was entirely emptied on the three higher-ups levels. A staircase in open-worked metal links together the two first floors. At each level, glazed windows were handled with care, on all the height of the dividing wall, bringing a real physical feeling, not so far from vertigo. Some of them are pierced by little round openings, allowing inhabitant to communicate from a level to another one. Behind the windowpanes, the platforms, transitions spaces, were covered by OSB stain in black, creating a mirror effect to those who look at them from the opposite openings. In front of these openings, mirrors were installed on the blind attached wall. The family benefits the unexpected connections of this surprising arrangement, worthy of Lewis Caroll.