COCHA | OUI (Office for Urban Innovation)

COCHA is a contemporary 400m² building located in Uccle, Brussels, comprising two separate yet interconnected townhouses. The project showcases the innovative use of cross-laminated timber (CLT), providing an eco-friendly and sustainable approach to modern architecture.

The design of COCHA had to consider the natural landscape, as the plot is on a sloped street with a 4-meter height difference between the street level and the garden, the design utilized the slope to create a semi-sunken ground floor built from masonry. This masonry base serves as a moisture barrier, ensuring that the wooden upper structure remains untouched by the damp ground.

One of the remarkable aspects of the project is the speed and precision of its assembly. The four upper floors, constructed entirely from prefabricated CLT panels, were assembled in just seven days. The wood, sourced from European forests, was transported in three trailers and meticulously mounted using a crane. Each panel was numbered to correspond with a detailed 3D assembly diagram, ensuring efficient and accurate construction.

Both townhouses have their own private entrances on the ground floor. The southern facade, facing the street, features large sliding windows that flood the interior spaces with natural light. This side of the house is where the kitchen and living areas are situated, offering a warm, sunlit environment.
In contrast, the garden-facing northeast side of the building is designed for privacy, with smaller, more modest openings. This is where the bedrooms and bathrooms are located, providing a calm and secluded atmosphere.

The top floor steps back from the main facade, revealing two distinct outdoor areas. One is a sun-drenched terrace offering breathtaking views of Brussels, perfect for outdoor relaxation and socializing. The other is a green roof that connects the structure to the surrounding natural environment while enhancing the ecological footprint of the project.

The interiors of COCHA are marked by clean lines, minimalist aesthetics, and the warmth of natural materials. The CLT structure is celebrated throughout the space, paired with marble accents and playful color contrasts such as the terracotta-colored staircases and black cabinetry in the kitchen. The careful combination of wood, stone, and color creates a harmonious and inviting living environment that balances modern design with natural elements.
Overall, COCHA is a thoughtful blend of innovative architecture, sustainable materials, and sensitive integration into its urban yet nature-adjacent context, making it a unique contribution to the architectural landscape of Brussels.