This Beguiling Guesthouse in Belgium Has an Underground Cinema and a Watchtower

When a homeowner in the film industry asked Atelier Vens Vanbelle to build a guesthouse in his backyard, he had only one request—that it be unforgettable. 

Connected to the main residence in Berlare, Belgium, by an underground corridor that leads guests up a spiral staircase, Alex Guesthouse is a three-story retreat encompassing a basement cinema and bar, a main living floor, and a watchtower surveying the Schelde river. Its sculptural, layered form was created off-site with laminated wood, then built on the property and clad in Cor-Ten steel. The undulating interiors give this backyard cabin a whimsical, grotto-like feel.

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Moooi Random Pendant Light

The Random Pendant Light transmits a feeling of simplicity, softness, and a touch of magic in a contemporary style. It is formed from fiberglass soaked in epoxy resin that is randomly coiled around an inflatable mold, creating a magic translucent 3D fabric. The shade is a unified piece with a small opening at the top for access to the lamp. The exposed bulb provides ambient, direct illumination that is ideal for illuminating foyers, living rooms, bedrooms, and dining rooms. 
Founded by Marcel Wanders and Casper Vissers in 2001, Moooi is devoted to listening to designers and making their dreams take form. The result? A collection of lighting, furniture and accessories that is playful, unique and exquisitely daring. From bold patterns to oversized shapes to eclectic oddities, Moooi aims to inspire people to fall in love with their homes once again. Photo courtesy of YLighting

Related Reading: A Concrete Casita in Austin Does Double Duty as Guesthouse and Gear Storage

Project Credits:

Architect: Atelier Vens Vanbelle

Interior Design: Atelier Vens Vanbelle