The VILLAMA house, designed by maa_architecture studio and completed in 2020, demonstrates how contemporary residential architecture can successfully blend modern living requirements with traditional architectural principles. Located on a 13-acre plot in the residential development of Ohain, Lasne, Belgium, this 320-square-meter single-family home represents a thoughtful response to strict urban planning regulations while meeting today's lifestyle needs.
The project faced significant challenges from the outset due to urban planning requirements that heavily influenced the design process. The municipality of Lasne is renowned for its particular attention to preserving the rural and traditional character of the built environment. These regulations immediately limited volumetric and material possibilities to traditional expressions, requiring sloped roofs with tiles or slats, brick façades, simple volumes, and a clear hierarchy of forms.
Lead architect Michel Parubaj approached these constraints as an opportunity rather than a limitation. The design team recognized that while lifestyles and construction techniques have evolved considerably over the years, the challenge was to create spaces that meet contemporary needs while making use of modern design methods and technologies. The solution required respectfully preserving the character of local architecture while aligning with the spirit of the municipality's vision.
The architectural approach proved enriching in multiple ways, particularly in a contemporary context where grand gestures are commonplace. The design process involved analyzing traditional architecture in the region, which quickly revealed the sound building sense of ancestors and the beauty of principles that defined their work. These principles emphasized simplicity, discretion, and understatement, while remaining rich and ingenious in their execution.
The project demonstrates that respecting traditional architectural principles does not imply a retrograde, conservative, or uncreative mindset. Instead, the VILLAMA house showcases how contemporary design can honor historical context while incorporating modern functionality and construction techniques. The collaboration included structural engineering by Forme & Structures and carpentry work by Rive Gauche, ensuring both aesthetic and technical excellence.
Photographed by Oana Crainic and CaroLine Dethier, the completed house features materials from notable manufacturers including Wienerberger, Vande Moortel, and Wever & Ducre. The project stands as a testament to the possibility of creating architecture that bridges past and present, proving that innovation can coexist with tradition in meaningful and beautiful ways.
