The entrance approach to Residence SAB

Tucked away in a lush, wooded landscape just steps from a quiet golf course, lies Residence SAB , a new single-family home designed by the award-winning studio Govaert Vanhoutte Architecten . This Belgian house among trees is more than just a home it’s a seamless blend of modern architecture and natural surroundings, proving that thoughtful design can truly enhance the environment rather than disrupt it.

The facade of Residence SAB combines natural wood and transparent glass, showcasing a harmonious blend of contemporary architecture and the surrounding environment

From Idea to Reality

The homeowners wanted a residence that would feel like a natural extension of the land, not an intrusion upon it. With mature American oaks dotting the site, preserving these trees was non-negotiable. The architects took this challenge head-on, using the undulating terrain to shape the building’s form.

They carved deep into the land for a spacious basement, slightly elevated the ground floor, and placed the bedrooms on the upper level crowned by a rooftop terrace nestled among the treetops.

A modern house nestled among trees, featuring a glass-and-wood design that reflects natural light.
Side view of Residence SAB, showcasing wooden and transparent glass elements that offer a glimpse into the surrounding forest.

Two Boxes, One Vision

The layout cleverly splits the home into two distinct volumes:

  • A wooden box : housing the private sleeping areas across two levels.
  • A glass box : containing the open plan living spaces tucked beneath the wooden structure.

This concept creates a dynamic visual contrast while maintaining a strong sense of unity through a single concrete slab that anchors the entire design.

FloorMain Function
Basement4-car garage, gym, game room, bar, storage
Ground FloorLiving room, kitchen, dining area, home cinema
Upper FloorBedrooms, study, covered terrace
Roof TerraceOutdoor lounge, jacuzzi, fireplace, petanque court
A modern house seamlessly integrated into a dense forest, featuring a design that blends wood and glass to reflect its surroundings.
The facade of Residence SAB combines natural wood and transparent glass, offering a clear view of the surrounding forest.

Transparency Meets Privacy

Approaching from the west, the house appears solid and protected behind a large concrete wall that leads down to the underground garage. But as you move around the building, the mood changes dramatically.

The southern façade is almost entirely glazed, inviting light and views into the heart of the home. Meanwhile, the northern side remains more closed off a quiet nod to the private nature of the office and utility spaces located there.

SideDesign Feature
WestConcrete wall leading to hidden ramp entrance
SouthGlass façade offering panoramic garden views
NorthClosed façade for privacy in work and service areas
EastOutdoor kitchen, barbecue, and fireplace zone
A modern living room with a serene aesthetic, featuring minimalist furniture and wooden flooring
The living room in Residence SAB combines dark and light tones, offering a direct view of the forest through its glass facade.

Life Below Ground

The basement isn’t just a place for cars it’s a fully functioning space for leisure and utility. It houses a well-equipped gym, a games room with a pool table, a cozy bar, and plenty of storage. Practical yet stylish, this level feels far from being an afterthought.

A cozy living area with a wooden fireplace and natural materials in its design
The living space in Residence SAB combines warmth and elegance, featuring a central fireplace that adds comfort.

Quiet Retreats Above

Upstairs, the four bedrooms offer peace and privacy. The master suite overlooks the garden and surrounding woods, while two smaller identical suites and a guest room provide comfort for family and visitors. A separate study offers a quiet corner for reading or working, always with nature just outside the window.

A modern indoor pool table area with warm lighting and contemporary design
The billiards room in Residence SAB combines elegance and warm lighting, offering a view of the forest through its glass facade.

Rooftop Escape

A small internal staircase leads to the roof terrace the crown jewel of the house. Here, a jacuzzi, fireplace, and seating area make for perfect summer nights under the stars. Even a small pétanque court has been thoughtfully included, making this outdoor space both functional and fun.

A modern house facade blending natural wood and transparent glass, offering a direct view of the surrounding forest.
A view of Residence SAB’s facade, seamlessly integrated with its natural surroundings, featuring wood and glass elements that reflect the trees.

Natural Materials, Refined Simplicity

Despite its modern aesthetic, the home avoids over-decoration. Instead, it relies on clean lines, honest materials, and subtle details to create warmth and calm. Wood, concrete, and glass work together in harmony each playing its part without overpowering the other.

A modern indoor living area with a cushioned sofa and a low coffee table featuring books and decorative items.
A living room in Residence SAB that combines simplicity and elegance, offering a direct view of the forest through its glass facade.

Why This Project Stands Out

Residence SAB isn’t just another luxury villa it’s a testament to how architecture can coexist with nature. Every decision, from the way the house follows the slope of the land to the careful preservation of old trees, shows a deep respect for the environment. It’s a reminder that great design doesn’t have to shout to be noticed sometimes, the most powerful projects are the ones that feel like they were always meant to be there.

✦ ArchUp Editorial Insight

This article explores the design of Residence SAB by Govaert Vanhoutte Architecten, a Belgian villa seamlessly embedded into a forested landscape. The visuals highlight the integration of natural materials, layered spatial transitions, and the contrast between solid concrete and transparent façades. While the project demonstrates strong formal clarity, it lacks in depth discussion on sustainability or long-term contextual relevance. As a contemporary residential case, it offers valuable insight into material expression and volumetric planning, yet remains visually driven with limited conceptual expansion beyond aesthetics.

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