A sleek Belgian B&B in a converted fortress

Today I’m sharing a peek inside a stunning conversion that’s not only a family home, but also a very stylish B&B. Called The Bunkers, it sits on the site of an 18th-cenury fortress on the Belgian-Dutch border and showcases the kind of old-meets-new design that always makes me stop in my tracks.

The B&B occupies the fortress’ former barn, which has been beautifully transformed by Bruges-based architects Govaert & Vanhoutte. They added a new wood-clad wing whose gabled roof continues the line of the original brick building, along with a glass walkway to connect the two structures. They also installed floor-to-ceiling metal-framed windows gazing out over the surrounding fields and bird reserve, which are dotted with bunkers constructed during the First World War. Cleverly, slide-out screens made from vertical planks have been added to the exterior to provide privacy and shade when needed.

Inside are swathes of concrete that reflect the spirit of the fortifications, but they’re softened by gnarled beams and plenty of natural materials such as linen and wool. What’s more, the whole place is brimming with sleek Scandinavian design and mid-century classics. There are ‘PK22’ lounge chairs by Poul Kjærholm, contemporary wall lights from VIPP, ‘Series 7’ chairs by Arne Jacobsen, ‘Hee’ bar stools from HAY and ‘Wire’ dining chairs by Charles and Ray Eames; I’ve even spotted a leather ‘Butterfly’ chair, designed by Antonio Bonet, Juan Kurchan and Jorge Ferrari Hardoy all the way back in 1938 and one of my all-time favourite pieces.

The five guest bedrooms look especially enticing thanks to their minimalist furniture and soothing colour schemes. Each has a wetroom-style ensuite clad in concrete, plus bespoke storage built into nooks beneath the sloping ceilings. Some have private terraces, too.

There’s also a communal kitchen and living space, created by owner Axel to give guests a place to linger and unwind. I love the dramatic black VIPP units and the concrete worktops, plus the contemporary fireplace and boxy sofa – all offset perfectly by a snuggly deep-pile rug and open shelving lined with curios. Perhaps best of all, though, is the glass-encased pool with its sweeping views over the landscape – an unexpected treat in such a small B&B.

In short, the whole place looks incredible, and it’s definitely on my must-visit list!

Book a stay at The Bunkers here. Rooms start from €215 per night. 

All photography via The Bunkers