- Interior
The oldest streets of the city of Antwerp set the scene for this showpiece by Maison Osaïn. In House Linaza, the team made the sum of the best original assets of the residence and the contemporary standards they strive for in all their projects. As always, they acted on their overarching priority of putting the well-being of the residents first. Their pride is more than justified, as the result is a breath of fresh air that makes time slow down for a moment.
Having the urban bustle at your fingertips and yet coming home to a peaceful biotope: it is not a given. Yet that is exactly how House Linaza successfully presents itself. In the heart of the city, Ann Butaye and Thomas Verschuren, life partners and founders of Maison Osaïn, conducted the property's past and their vision of contemporary living into a practised balance. Believe us, you will linger here for a while. Both resident and visitor experience with all the senses how a thoughtful yet creative concept like this can express itself in your personal emotional identity. Escaping into your own universe is a sign of a home that transcends the tangible. For the duo, a house should be a personal refuge, enriched with invisible qualities and where we can halt. Such silence and reflection bring us closer to the core of who we are. Old houses are bought up and reinvented by Maison Osaïn, without giving up too much of their individuality.
Respect for the existing is at the heart of this, as is a bold understanding of living comfort. This is not surprising considering where the two experts come from professionally. Where he has a background in architecture, she comes from the world of fashion. The renovations are naturally done in collaboration with highly regarded architects, craftspeople, and artists. These shared efforts result in impressive manifestations of sincere living. With this term, the couple refers to the orchestrated fusion of aesthetics and well-being they pursue with their projects.
An overarching priority to put residents' well-being first
In finished status, House Linaza seems to have emerged naturally, however the preceding process was not free of challenges. During the design phase, close checks had to be made with the city's heritage department. Certain things were desirable to remove, but in doing so the authentic structures must not be affected. Once, a low mezzanine floor on the ground level served as a retail space. Removing it, nevertheless, created more opportunities for light and freedom of movement. On the ground floor, there is an open kitchen concept with dining area. High ceilings and windows visually enlarge the space. If you want to enjoy some fresh air, there is the charming courtyard, equipped with all kinds of lush greenery. Before you reach the first floor, you pass a sort of mezzanine area ideal for reading and retreating. Next is the living space on the first level, where social interaction flourishes but you can equally unwind. Nearby, there is a concentration room, perfect for spending a few hours productively and/or creatively. On the second floor there are two bedrooms, one of which can also serve as a multifunctional area, and a bathroom. You finish in the attic, where the master bedroom has exceptional views of the Scheldt and a private terrace. The magazine is now available in stores and can also be purchased via our webshop.
Photography by Tijs Vervecken
Text by Elke Aerts