Chateau D'eau: A Unique Conversion of an Old Watertower into a House

Vertical Living Meets Industrial Charm

The Chateau D'eau project is a testament to the power of creativity and innovation. Located in the heart of a flat Belgian landscape, this 30-meter high water tower was built between 1938 and 1941. After being in service until the early 1990s, it was eventually protected and preserved by the Royal Commission for the Protection and Preservation of Monuments and Sites.

The exterior of the tower has been meticulously renovated to its original state, with damaged concrete columns repaired and painted, brick joints replaced, and windows enlarged. However, the real magic lies within the tower's unique interior.

The challenge of converting an industrial building with such strong character and unusual spaces was met with exceptional design prowess. The interior of Chateau D'eau features a diverse architectural language, including eight-sided spaces, cylindrical rooms, domes, and soaring 5-meter high ceilings.

Each floor of the tower serves a specific purpose, creating a harmonious flow throughout the vertical living space. The sixth floor boasts a terrace with a panoramic view, offering a breathtaking experience for residents and guests. The fifth floor houses the living room and kitchen, which benefit from the partial demolition of the tank, allowing natural light to flood the space.

The fourth floor is dedicated to the bedroom, where an open room design seamlessly integrates a monolithic mirror dressing, creating additional windows and views to the exterior. The third floor features a luxurious bathroom, complete with a walk-in shower enclosed in black glass walls, providing a sense of intimacy and coziness.

The second floor is a versatile space, serving as a guest room and office, while the first floor houses the technical room. Finally, the ground floor welcomes residents and guests with an elegant entrance hall and garage.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Chateau D'eau is its proximity to the national airport, located less than 500 meters away. This unique location makes it an ideal choice for exclusive events and workshops targeting high-profile individuals and companies.

The integration of a sophisticated domotics system was crucial to support the dual program of the tower. This advanced system ensures seamless operation and functionality, catering to the needs of both the private residents and the occasional event attendees.

Mauro Brigham's design for Chateau D'eau has received numerous accolades, including the prestigious Silver A' Design Award in 2011. This recognition highlights the exceptional expertise and innovation demonstrated in the conversion of this industrial landmark into a remarkable residential space.

Chateau D'eau is a true testament to the power of design and the ability to transform unconventional spaces into extraordinary living environments. With its unique architecture, bold design elements, and integration of advanced technology, this project sets a new standard for vertical living.