Maison Osaïn, the Belgian collective specialised in the renovation of historic homes, is transforming the legendary Villa Sous Tous Vent in Knokke

More than a design studio, Maison Osaïn embodies a way of life born from an aesthetic and holistic vision of living spaces. The collective brings historic buildings back to life, transforming them into harmonious, sustainable, turnkey residences.

Maison Osaïn unveils a major project: the complete renovation of the Villa Sous Tous Vent in Knokke-Le-Zoute. This listed property — once the residence of Belgian painter Albert Saverys, a key figure of modern art — is being restored in collaboration with internationally renowned landscape designer Piet Oudolf and the Italian artistic collective KALPA, based in Volterra, Tuscany.

Founded in 2022 by architect Thomas Maria Verschuren and designer Ann Butaye, Maison Osaïn emerged from a dual crisis: the global pandemic and a serious health issue. These experiences reshaped the couple’s priorities, guiding them toward a search for meaning centered on well-being, self-care, and the art of living.

For its founders, Maison Osaïn represents a philosophy of life rooted in renewal, reorientation, and re-enchantment. Through collaborations with architects, artists, and artisans, they breathe new life into historic buildings while honouring their original character.

« It is not just about architecture: Maison Osaïn is a way of life — a commitment to creating healthy, sensitive, and sustainable living spaces centred on well-being, nature, and aesthetics. »

The name Maison Osaïn is inspired by a divinity from the Yoruba tradition associated with plant wisdom, healing, and regeneration. Like this symbolic figure, Maison Osaïn breathes new life into historic homes by offering them a contemporary vision aligned with natural rhythms and present-day needs.

Villa Sous Tous Vent

Built in 1926 by Ghent-based architect Valentin Vaerwyck, the Villa Sous Tous Vent long served as the residence of painter Albert Saverys. Located in the heart of Le Zoute, just steps from the coastline, it offers panoramic views over one of Knokke’s most beautiful parks.

The architectural project creates a dialogue between past and present. Original features are restored with the utmost care, while light, openness, and fluidity shape the new spatial layout. Each room is conceived to offer a sensory experience that is restrained, elegant, and calming — a sanctuary for gathering with loved ones, far from the bustle of everyday life.

The bathroom is envisioned as a wellness retreat, combining noble materials with refined, minimalist finishes. The kitchen — the beating heart of the home — reinterprets the spirit of traditional kitchens in a warm, minimalist expression. Framed by expansive glass openings, it remains in constant dialogue with the surrounding nature.

Collaboration with Piet Oudolf and KALPA

The garden was conceived by Piet Oudolf, a leading figure in contemporary landscape design, renowned for his poetic compositions that blend spontaneity and structure. Here, nature is granted an equal role in the architectural project, creating a delicate balance between biodiversity and contemplation.

Maison Osaïn collaborates on the artistic curation with KALPA, a gallery and curatorial platform based in Volterra, founded by artist Olga Niescier. Works by Eleanor Herbosch, Annelies Toussaint, and Sabine Pagliarulo adorn the Villa.

KALPA represents an eclectic community of artists and acts as an advisor to institutions such as AMAN and Molteni&C. Its name, borrowed from Sanskrit, means “cycle of creation and regeneration,” a vision that deeply resonates with that of Maison Osaïn.

Since its founding, KALPA has also restored Palazzo Bonomini using local natural materials such as pietra panchina — a gesture that reflects the shared values of both entities: respect for place, rhythm, and material.

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Copyright : Tijs Vervecken