Open house 9/09 from 4–6 p.m.
Address: Kortewinkel 7, 8000 Bruges
Located in the heart of Bruges’ medieval centre, this extraordinary five-storey townhouse on the waterfront – dating from the 11th century or earlier – offers a seamless combination of timeless elegance and modern luxury.
The property has been meticulously restored using the finest materials by craftsmen recognised by Queen Elizabeth II. The home features a serene garden flowing into Bruges’ iconic canals, providing unparalleled tranquillity in the historic city centre.
An imposing entrance hall with an authentic floor and ceilings rising to an impressive 5.5 metres is bathed in daylight through a glass roof three storeys above. On either side are a cherry-wood library and a cosy leather-clad sitting room – both heated by wood-burning stoves – inviting relaxation.
The Art Deco music room, with magnificent stained-glass windows and a gas stove, flows into a bright dining room beneath a glass ceiling with a second gas stove. Large French doors offer breathtaking views of the canal, enhancing the dining experience. Adjacent is a state-of-the-art gourmet kitchen with a separate bar and one of the home’s two refrigerated beer taps.
The formal drawing room, lined with silk and featuring a large open fireplace, opens through French doors onto a rose-covered Juliet balcony overlooking the garden and canals.
The first floor comprises the master sleeping quarters, designed for maximum comfort. Two spacious bedrooms with seating areas serve as separate suites, each with its own bathroom and connected by a discreet passage. The largest suite has a walk-in wardrobe and a gas stove. Two additional bedrooms, one with its own bathroom, complete this floor. A quiet reading nook on the landing provides an intimate retreat.
The second floor contains a refined office with panoramic views over Bruges’ skyline – perfect for work or entertaining. It also features a fully self-contained two-level apartment with its own kitchen, living room, bathroom and mezzanine sleeping area: ideal for guests, staff or use as a private studio. An additional bedroom with en-suite bathroom completes this level.
The third floor, offering expansive views over Bruges and its canals, comprises two spacious bedrooms and a sitting area – perfect as a private retreat for larger families or additional guests.
At garden level, you will find a true oasis of relaxation with a stylish bar (featuring the second beer tap), a billiard room with a chimneyless gas fireplace, and a double-vaulted games room with a huge wood-burning stove and built-in BBQ. The summer dining area opens onto the garden and is complemented by a wine cellar, gym, sauna and an additional bathroom.
The utility room accommodates 15 bicycles, a modern laundry room, a new gas boiler and the infrastructure for the refrigerated beer taps. The carefully landscaped city garden and water garden flow harmoniously into the canals, creating an oasis of calm in the heart of Bruges. A rare private mooring – one of only a few in the city – underscores the exclusivity of this property. This extraordinary home offers a unique opportunity to own a historic masterpiece in one of Bruges’ most sought-after locations.