Our Hidden (Humble) Abode

     Our little house is hidden on a small street in the St Anne area of the old town.  The neighborhood is made up of the common Belgian row-houses that are built right on the street, most about 400 years old, with garden area set in the inner area.  Our house was built at the end of the 19th or the beginning of the 20th century in this garden area.  This means that it is not visible from the street and is thankfully very quiet, as street noise seems blocked by the surrounding houses and neighbors are sensitive to noise disturbance.  None of the houses are more than 3 stories, and most are only 2, so a lovely view of sky opens up in the back patio space.  The house is surrounded but does not feel boxed in in any way.  The main structure is brick that has been insulted from the outside and covered with gaudy spruce planks.  We're not especially fond of the look, but it's hardly noticed in our comings and goings.  The energy consumption is low, so its purpose seems legitimate.

The garage door opens onto the street.  It leads to a small courtyard behind the row of houses.  This arrangement seemed odd at first but provides wonderful privacy and quiet.  This is especially significant since we leave for extended periods fairly regularly, so the invisibility of the house is an advantage for security.  Belgium is known for the frequent burglary of unoccupied houses.  We have, thus far, been spared.  

The garage was once the parlor of a small street-
side house.  The tiles are lovely, and a fireplace
can just be seen on the left.

The front door, up a few steps.

The spiral staircase leads to two bedrooms and a bathroom upstairs.  This is  the domain of the girls!

In an effort to keep clutter to a minimum, most of our stuff is stored in this unit.  Books, trinkets, blankets, pillows, sleeping bags, binders of endless documents, wine, beer...  You name it, it's here.

I love our food shelf.  Dry stuff visible in mason jars, and a rack for wine and beer below.  Pasta, beer and wine boutique...and beans n rice.

The kitchen is simple but functional...and awaiting a renovation.  The rolling chopping block is very handy.  My history and cycling books are stored in the tall shelving unit, topped by Olivia's portrait of Frieda Kalo.

Entrance seen from the upstairs landing.  It's Xmas all year round.

Olivia's magnificent sushi rolls!

Entrance facing into downstairs bedroom.

Downstairs bedroom and bathroom.  Exposed shelving courtesy of Ikea is simple and keeps clothing from getting musty in humid Belgium.  This house is nice and dry, probably due to having sunshine on three sides and most of the walls exposed to the air.