The Perfect Balance
A restored farmhouse where timeless character meets contemporary design
A young family sought to blend the warm, inviting character of the past with the simplicity of modern living—a vision they realized in their restored farmhouse set in the countryside. The design achieves this balance beautifully, seamlessly merging classic architectural elements with contemporary interiors while preserving the home's inherent charm and authenticity.
The concept emerged from careful consideration of reference materials: after extensive restoration work, the property would receive a thoughtfully modern interior design while safeguarding its original character. The challenge was to introduce new functionality without compromising what made the farmhouse special. Working collaboratively with heritage authorities, the team navigated preservation requirements for the building structure and windows seamlessly. Though the roof beams faced no mandatory restrictions, the owners chose to restore them, thoughtfully reintegrating these historic elements into the overall design. Wood anchors the aesthetic: solid timber pairs elegantly with lacquered cabinetry and doors. Twin glass swing doors in the entrance (Marcel Wolterinck "Le Cadre 1S" design in sanded lacquer, Soft Black) introduce transparency and flow. Throughout the living spaces, classic oak flooring transitions gracefully into quality carpet, while a parquet strip between carpet and wall creates striking visual interest in the bedrooms. The generous living areas showcase warm wooden floors punctuated by exposed historic roof beams overhead. Bright white walls reinforce the project's sense of openness and light. In the sleeping quarters, wallpaper in soft gradations of black and white complements the natural warmth of solid wood tones. Stainless steel hardware—including Piet Boon "New Amsterdam" doors in sanded lacquer (Milk and Soft Black finishes)—provides refined accents. The result is a harmonious interplay of material and colour. The kitchen, dining, and living spaces now flow as one continuous realm, with the kitchen's sophisticated black palette echoed in a striking feature wall and media installation. Coordinated lighting and wall treatments unite these zones. Thoughtful planning evident from the outset reveals itself in every detail—the marriage of old and new woven throughout. A functionally elegant wellness area frames unobstructed views of the meticulously landscaped gardens and countryside beyond. The bathrooms are luminous, uncluttered, and thoroughly contemporary, with a cohesive ceramic white palette unified across the home's carefully curated colour scheme. The exterior now presents as an expansive, classically proportioned parkland.
Photography Credits:
Bod'or KTM
(Featured in CUBE Ruhrgebiet 03|23)