Delmulle Delmulle Architecten’s Glass Brick House Spotlights an “Inverted” Double Façade

Summary

  • Delmulle Delmulle Architecten’s Glass Brick House features an inverted layout to optimize a compact urban plot
  • Its double façade layout, transitioning from terracotta to glass bricks
  • Sustainable interiors use white-stained CLT and terracotta floors, crowned by a rooftop terrace

The Glass Brick House situated in Waterwijk, Amsterdam, Netherlands, stands out as a modern architectural marvel harmoniously interacting with its historical environment. Designed by Belgian architecture firm Delmulle Delmulle Architecten, this three-story dwelling rests on a small, enclosed plot and creatively adapts to space constraints through an “upside-down” design — situating bedrooms at the lower levels and common areas at the upper ones. This vertical layout is reflected in the exterior, where the base is made of earthy terracotta tiles, transitioning to translucent glass bricks on the higher floors, inviting natural light while maintaining privacy.

One significant feature of the architecture is its dual facade system, which improves both energy efficiency and daily comfort. This system uses translucent glass bricks alongside full-height glazing to allow maximum daylight while maintaining thermal insulation and privacy – a crucial aspect in such a compact area. Delicate architectural elements, such as patterned brickwork and traditional window trimmings, echo a nearby house with a stepped gable from 1707, integrating the innovative design into Waterwijk’s rich urban history. This method embodies the studio’s trademark blend of bold creativity and careful adaptability in urban settings.

Within, the house maintains its modest material integrity and structural simplicity. The interior design is entirely composed of cross-laminated timber (CLT), featuring white-stained wooden surfaces and earthy terracotta flooring that generate a cozy, minimalist ambiance. This color scheme echoes the rhythmic visuals on the exterior, enhancing the harmony between indoor and outdoor spaces. On top, a rooftop terrace serves as a lofty sanctuary, emphasizing the home’s tranquil challenge of spatial boundaries through vertical living and gentle transparency.

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2025-07-25 12:26