Wednesday, March 11, 2026

Architecture Wednesday 1908 Industrial Live/Work Space

I realize this is not for everyone, but I admire the vast space of the work area and the clean, modern lives of the living areas … with gardens and views, too.

In a city where most windows overlook greenery or bustling streets, this property offers a rare and unique view: a window onto art and creativity. Behind the facade of a former electricity warehouse built in 1908 is an exceptional live/workspace that harmoniously blends industrial history and contemporary comfort.

Since 2009, the current owner has been transforming the warehouse into a studio and residential space. The result? An impressive main building of 3000 square feet and a forty-tw0 foot high ceiling, where metal trusses, tall windows, and distinctive brickwork set the tone. Up the iron stairs, a bright 1300 square foot living space with an open-plan kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom; next door is a separate studio, ideal for guests or creative projects, and a spacious office overlooking the garden. At the rear, two warehouses/workshops, various storage spaces, and a cellar await meaning it can become whatever you might want or need. Practicality has also been considered throughout with five private parking spaces behind an automatic gate on the left, and an intimate 860 square foot  city garden on the right.

The loft is well placed for city living, with neighborhood cafés and shops nearby. Park Spoor Noord is a short walk away, while Antwerp’s historic center, the Eilandje docklands and central station are all easily reached.

This is a unique opportunity to merge life, work and art under one roof and all for $1.5M.

24 comments:

  1. Oh my, so much potential. The bed up over the shower is unique, but for a younger man than I. There is lots of space and light for finishing the kitchen. And the downstairs studio work space is a dream.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It could use a zhuzh but I do like the space, even the unfinished spaces!

      Delete
  2. I'll pass on this. I like the space, but it seems as though it's being filled with small ideas. The bed over the shower? That seems a bit suicidal to me.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I think it's a live/work space with more of the space for work; I'd try and switch that!

      Delete
  3. I could work with this. I could refine it. I love the concept.

    My initial thought would be to redevelop the living spaces. At 1,300 square feet, that’s perfect. I would just need to reimagine the space—an easy fix.

    What about leasing out the other areas as artists’ workspaces? Careful thought would have to be given to make sure we get the right mix.

    We could even convert the 860 square feet of city garden space into a true community garden.

    I see so much potential. You will always have me at a repurposed warehouse.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It'd be perfect to rent out for artists etc. Gallery space and sales space, too!

      Delete
  4. Anonymous11:46 AM

    the dog's mother
    xoxo :-)

    ReplyDelete
  5. It's not for me but I can appreciate the design and repurpose of the space. That would make a phenomenal restaurant/ Lounge. It' sort of reminds me of a place in Lambertville across the river from New Hope called the Pork Yard. They have a fabulous dinner menu there. And it's called the pork yard because it used to be a slaughterhouse for pigs.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yeah, it's not for me, really, though I appreciate the space and the possibilities!
      I love the name Pork Yard for a restaurant!

      Delete
  6. I'm grateful that the building continues to be used and evolve. I can't see myself living there but I can appreciate the history.
    Gotta say, though the bed above the shower is a bit freaky. I've been known to fall out of bed on occasion. :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I, too, like the way spaces are renovated for a different purpose rather than torn down.
      That bed is too high for me!!!

      Delete
  7. Dreary inside and out and I don't have the insight to change it, so I'll pass. I know, shocker.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Red???? Houseboys in wee briefs????

      Delete
  8. Nope. How do you heat or cool the place? No walls just curtains? And like others have mentioned - I'd die when I rolled over and fell out of that bed.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. There are some walls, and I'd sleep in the regular bed and save the shower bed for adventurous guests who first sign a waiver!

      Delete
  9. Oh I love this!
    I would use it as a work /living space. I love the loft as an extra sleeping space and the patio is adorable.
    I love those sky-high (literally) ceilings!
    When can I move in?

    XOXO

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Scrape together the coins and pack your bags. I'll let you know when I'm visiting!
      xoxo

      Delete
  10. Eeeww nope. Gives Cell Block H vibes!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It's not for everyone but it does beg the question: when were you in Cell Block H?? 😁

      Delete
  11. It's interesting, and the actual living space is really nice, but I'm not sure I'd want my home to be tacked onto a massive vacant warehouse. Not exactly cozy!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. If the warehouse was used for artists and creators I might live there. I'm only hoping I don't have to walk THROUGH that space to get to my front door!

      Delete
  12. Anonymous6:09 PM

    The warehouse space reminds of an old gym I used to work out in an industrial area in Los Angeles. The gym was converted from a warehouse and had that same construction and high ceiling.
    -CA jock

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I think it'd make a great loft home, or a live/work space for artists. If I find the cash .....

      Delete

Say anything, but keep it civil .......