Govaert & Vanhoutte Architects have completed this FSD house in Brussels, Belgium, which is embedded in a sloping terrain. The partial cladding of the building gives a certain elegance to the wood-textured concrete volume on one side of the street. The strong definition of the outer space as part of the building creates a clear boundary between the forest and the building. The forest contrasts nicely with the house.

All daytime functions are located on the upper level, where the views are the best. The kitchen and dining room near the main entrance share the same space with the living room and a partially partitioned private office. The master bedroom, dressing room and bathroom are on the east side of the building. A small patio pours light into the master bathroom. On the sunny side, a generous terrace forms the exterior space. A wide central staircase connects the two floors. All measures were taken to prevent elevators. If mobility becomes an issue, parents can live primarily on one level.

All night functions, garage and various storage are on the lower level. In the centre, a multi-purpose room flanks the pool facilities, close to the pool. Three bedrooms and two bathrooms are accessible along the enclosed night hall. A larger terrace, including the pool itself, slides above the terrace below. By moving the pool forward, it gets more sunlight and becomes more visible from the upper floors.