- Interior
Greatness can be extremely silent at times. This extraordinary renovation allows onlookers to encounter the glory of an old monastery and holds everyone’s attention without hesitation. This time, interior architect Britt Van Namen surprises us with a beautiful result, and many would agree when we say that this is a notable masterpiece in her skilled portfolio. Kapel Turnhout welcomes you with massive competence and creativity.
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An eye for detail is not an afterthought, but a foundation that bears witness to passion and drive. In this way, rather austere functionality is softened with finishes that resolutely distinguish a project from other designs in Britt Van Namen's same portfolio. At the same time, the recurring use of microtopping indicates an interrelated cohesion that contributes to the recognisability of her projects, and Kapel Turnhout naturally does not deviate from this. For this project, Van Namen was asked to collaborate on a renovation in which an old monastery was converted into flats.More specifically, we show here the result of her design for the chapel: the absolute highlight of an impressive whole. The people who can call this rare place their home know every day how it feels to live grandly in a setting of unique history. Indeed, here the past was given a new look that was literally tailor-made. The masterful balance between respect for the old and a vision for its new interpretation reminds everyone of the value of interior designers who can turn wishes into reality. -51.jpg)
Masterful balance between respect for the old and a vision for a new interpretation
On the ground floor of the chapel, the living space and kitchen flow into each other, being one large space that was ingeniously provided with appropriate divisions and distinctions. Central to the work process was the balancing of classical elements against contemporary adaptations.The original architecture is reflected in the conservation of the wondrous glass panes, whose colours in stained glass make it immediately clear what the former function of the building was, and the high ceilings that give it an almost weighty appearance.To make modern living comfort more attainable, Van Namen placed a large glazed area downstairs, immediately drawing the adjoining garden inside and making it an integral part of the concept. -52.jpg)
In the kitchen, we see two impressive islands taking the lead. Similar to the clean look of the living space, all appliances are hidden from view here.Bronze-coloured natural stone creates a fantastic effect and extends into the cut-out cooking hobs.Furthermore, much of your attention is automatically drawn to the impressive spiral staircase that emerges next to the kitchen islands. Adjacent, the dining table invites to sit down with the family after a long day, after which the residents can immediately move on to the sofa for a cosy TV moment.In addition to the social areas, you will find the master suite on the ground floor.One of the fantastic showpieces that set the tone here are the original church windows.These create a unique atmosphere without hesitation, ensuring that residents are aware of the special nature of their home.In turn, a dressing room with sliding doors reminds you that the project also meets our modern desire for living comfort. Adjacent, a bathroom in an interesting shade of aubergine immediately invites you to take a refreshing shower or a relaxing, long bath. Van Namen clearly knew how to manipulate spatiality to her liking and undeniably connected all spaces into a coherent, magical whole. -53.jpg)
In short, Kapel Turnhout is a home where, as a resident, you are aware every day of the influence an environment has on your mood. Here, silence and laughter meet in a space where the passage of time plays the common thread. We hope that this talented force will be able to expand her portfolio in the future with large-scale top projects like this, and are sure that her audience will continue to grow significantly.
Want to see more of this project? You can do so via the coffee table book PURE II by Imagicasa.
Photography by Cafeine