In detail: an oasis of peace on the rooftop in Belgium

A roof garden that embraces a dwelling on three sides penetrating the domestic space is what allows to escape from the urban bustle into a peaceful oasis in contact with nature, without sacrificing comfort. This is the first key detail of a duplex penthouse on the third floor of a building in Ternat, Belgium, an interior design developed by Objekt Architecten. On the upper level, where the entrance is located, the garden seamlessly participates to the life of the dwelling, thanks to full-height windows that blur the boundaries between outside and inside. The focal point in the space is a rounded central volume clad in walnut wood that encloses the services and acts as a junction between the rooms: the kitchen and dining area at the head overlooking the garden; the living room, study and TV lounge at the rear head. Between the study and living room, the walnut-lined staircase leads to the level below where the private area with bedroom, bathroom, and a multi-purpose room with hammam is located.

Meticulous attention to detail in the choice of materials and finishes gives the interiors a sophisticated yet warm and cozy character. In the living area, the rustic stone laid with wide joints on the floor dialogues with the walnut wood of the wall coverings and shelving and with the leather of the furnishings, evoking a rough materiality in contrast with the glass of the dematerialised shell, with the gleaming stainless steel of the kitchen and with the sculptural fireplace suspended between the dining and living areas. Delicate nuances brush the rooms, from the soft pink of the studio and staircase walls to the earthy tones of the textiles and furnishings, creating a neutral canvas on which the bright colours of the paintings and everyday objects stand out vividly.

If the upper level is fluid and luminous, the level below is characterised by an intimate atmosphere, thanks to the neutral and warm tones of the plasterwork and furnishings, the soft lighting and the raw stone surfaces of the floors and the walnut wood of the panelling. In the bathroom en suite, hints of green colour punctuate the handles, washbasins, and marble countertops, delicately contrasting with the neutral ceramic surfaces and custom-made walnut wardrobes.