Dutch studio Barcode Architects has renovated a house in Belgium to make room to display a collection of hunting trophies.

Named Markthuis, the two-storey residence has been reconfigured to create a central atrium, helping to bring more daylight onto a double-height "exhibition wall" of paintings and antlers.

Barcode Architects replaced the original staircase with a freestanding wooden structure that folds back and forth through the atrium between clear-glass balustrades.

A frosted glass wall separates the staircase from the entrance lobby just in front, where a bearskin rug is spread across the floor.

Beyond the atrium, most of the original partitions have been removed to create a large open-plan space on both storeys. At ground-floor level, this room functions as reception room for entertaining guests, while the floor above is used as a general living and dining room.

"From any point in the villa there is a clear view out, to the sky and the green," says Barcode Architects. "Combined with the 'lofty' floor plan, it delivers the house with a unique transparency and quality."

Other recently completed house renovations include a converted stable block in England and an overhauled townhouse in the Netherlands. See more renovations on Dezeen.

Photography is by Christian van der Kooij.

Here's some more information from Barcode Architects:

Barcode Architects 'Markthuis' is completed

Barcode Architects design for the extension and renovation of 'Markthuis' is completed. The design is driven by the desire to optimise the daylighting in the house and the wish of the client to reserve a prominent place for his large collection of art and hunting trophies.

In order to maximize the spatial experience most of the interior walls are removed to remain with one open living space extending over the first two floors of the villa. Downstairs are comfortable spaces for receiving guests while on the upper first floor more intimate and private areas with an open plan kitchen, study, and lounge area are situated.

A large atrium connects the two layers and provides space for an exclusive, double high exhibition wall with an impressive amount of artefacts. The wooden staircase is placed as a freestanding piece of furniture within the vide, on one side guided by a 6 meter tall piece of glass. The glazed element separates the kitchen and the entrance lobby from the rest of the house and offers exciting plays of light and shadow.

Notice: Barcode Architects
Location: Belgium
Stage: Realized
Client: Private
Area: 400 sqm