There are moments in life when our needs and surroundings shift dramatically, and transitions between stages make those changes most evident. For Abdel and Marijke, who had recently retired and found their previous home too large and increasingly tired, the search for a smaller, more contemporary residence became a priority. They sold their old house and purchased a bungalow from the 1960s that required a comprehensive renovation. Working with Atelier Vens Vanbelle, the couple transformed that modest mid-century structure into a refined, contemporary home in Koksijde, Belgium. The result balances elegance and practicality, offering a comfortable, accessible living environment without sacrificing style.
The renovated house is laid out entirely on a single level, making it especially suitable for retired homeowners who want to avoid daily stairs and embrace accessible, barrier-free living. The exterior treatment uses a red earthen tone that lends warmth and character, while the interiors are kept bright and predominantly white. This contrast creates a subtle modern‑Moroccan feel that is both contemporary and inviting. A small, carefully curated garden surrounds the house, designed to be low-maintenance and easy to manage. A covered carport and a series of sheltered outdoor seating areas enrich the home’s exterior, offering places to relax and enjoy the outdoors without extensive upkeep.
Inside, the layout was reworked to suit the couple’s daily routines. Bedrooms, guest accommodation and bathrooms are positioned toward the front of the house, prioritizing privacy and ease of access, while the living and dining spaces are tucked away facing the rear garden. Large windows and wide openings flood the interior with natural light and strengthen the visual and physical connection to the outdoors. The open-plan living area creates an airy, relaxed atmosphere that reads like a comfortable holiday retreat but functions as a practical, ergonomic home for everyday life.
Design details were chosen to add personality without overwhelming the calm, neutral palette. Colorful tilework enlivens the kitchen, introducing pattern and texture while keeping cabinetry and main surfaces understated. Architectural elements such as a white-and-wood pergola and contrasting white and orange exterior accents further define the house’s identity. These touches combine to give the home a contemporary aesthetic with hints of warmth and regional character, reinforcing the modern‑Moroccan influence in a subtle, tasteful way.
While searching for the right property, Abdel and Marijke discovered a 1960s bungalow in poor condition. It needed a thorough renovation, but that condition revealed the property’s real potential: a single-story layout with a generous five-meter-wide garden that could be reworked to suit their lifestyle. The house’s one-level plan and outdoor space made it an excellent candidate for transformation into a comfortable, low-maintenance retirement home.
Working within the original footprint, the renovation focused on improving flow, daylight and indoor–outdoor relationships. The revised floor plan clarifies circulation and places communal spaces where they benefit most from garden views and sunlight. Materials and finishes were selected to be durable and easy to maintain, reflecting the couple’s desire for a home that feels like a relaxed retreat yet meets the practical needs of daily life. The landscaping complements this approach: a restrained, curated garden and smart outdoor seating areas create a tranquil setting without demanding constant upkeep.
The project demonstrates how a considered renovation can turn a dated bungalow into a modern, comfortable retirement home. By keeping everything on one level, enhancing natural light, simplifying maintenance and strengthening the relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces, the architects helped create a residence that is both functional and beautiful. For Abdel and Marijke, the finished house in Koksijde offers an elegant, contemporary setting that suits their lifestyle and frees them from the burdens of a larger, less practical property.
