Experience Translucent Elegance: Amsterdam's Glass Brick Sanctuary

Innovative Layout and Facade: Maximizing Compact Urban Space

Nestled within a constrained urban plot in Amsterdam's historic Waterwijk district, the Glass Brick House, conceived by the Belgian firm Delmulle Delmulle Architecten, presents a novel approach to residential design. Its ingenious \"inverted\" floor plan places private sleeping quarters on lower levels and primary living spaces above, effectively leveraging verticality to overcome site limitations. This strategic arrangement is outwardly mirrored by a captivating facade, which subtly transitions from robust terracotta at its base to ethereal glass bricks on its upper stories, ensuring privacy while inviting an abundance of natural light.

The Double Facade System: A Fusion of Efficiency and Aesthetics

Central to the home's innovative character is its sophisticated double facade system. This thoughtful integration of transparent glass bricks and expansive glazing not only maximizes daylight penetration but also significantly enhances thermal performance and seclusion. Such a design is particularly vital for a dwelling situated on a small, enclosed plot. The facade's intricate detailing, including patterned brickwork and classic window outlines, pays homage to a nearby 18th-century stepped-gable house, seamlessly integrating the contemporary structure into Waterwijk's rich historical tapestry. This approach exemplifies the firm's dedication to balancing artistic expression with a respectful infill strategy.

Harmonious Interiors and Elevated Living

The interior of the Glass Brick House maintains a consistent theme of material purity and structural clarity. Cross-laminated timber (CLT) forms the core of the internal structure, with surfaces treated in a delicate white stain and complemented by natural terracotta flooring. This chosen palette echoes the exterior's visual narrative, forging a continuous flow between the indoor and outdoor environments. Capping this extraordinary dwelling is a rooftop terrace, providing a secluded haven above the city. This elevated outdoor space further underscores the home's quiet triumph over spatial constraints, embodying a sophisticated blend of vertical living and subtle transparency.