What Istoir Is All About
Istoir is born from the desire to integrate the authenticity and beauty of special buildings into a living experience for the future. It’s about making sure the stories carried by these properties don’t just fade away. Actually, it’s even more than that: it’s about adding a new chapter to those stories. The common thread? A pursuit of beauty, quality, and sustainability that runs through every project.
The Main Benefit: Breathing New Life into Historic Sites
Istoir transforms sites with historical value into classy residential projects, preserving original heritage elements while stylishly integrating them into new architecture. The result? Characterful, spacious, and light-filled living spaces that meet all modern comfort requirements. Here’s a quick snapshot:
- From stately mansions to monasteries and industrial heritage sites
- Complete process management: purchase, design, conversion, interior finishing
- High-quality, sustainable finishes with contemporary comfort
- Expert handling of all construction formalities for total relief
- Respect for the original soul and character of each building
Spotlight on Unique Projects
Take the Karmel Monastery in Bruges, for example. In a place where peace and reflection have been central for centuries, a characterful residential project is rising right in the historic center. Or look at Potuit in Sint-Amandsberg, on the outskirts of Ghent, where a castle serves as the backdrop for a blend of renovation and new construction, all nestled in a warm, inviting park. And then there’s the Koetshuizen in Wondelgem—rustic coach houses around a hundred-year-old manor, now uniquely converted (and sold out!).
More Than Just Buildings: Stories and Soul
Istoir doesn’t just develop properties; it preserves the stories hidden behind their facades. Whether it’s a former doctor’s house with a park in Bruges (Hof Sebrechts) or a beautiful villa in Melle with eclectic charm and palm trees (Villa des Palmiers), each project is about honoring history while creating a new future. The team digs into the story behind every site, because restoring honor and respecting the soul of a building matters just as much as the financial side.
Part of a Bigger Family: The Camino Group
Istoir is part of Camino, a strong and stable family business made up of construction-related companies, each with its own expertise. This collaboration means unique properties get a new destination in an equally unique way. Every year, Istoir and the Camino group focus on sustainable themes, smartly and sustainably renovating existing properties into authentic new homes. It’s about handling space wisely and with respect for the environment.
Project Impact: Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Linked to Istoir
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – revitalizing historic urban sites
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – sustainable renovation practices
- SDG 13: Climate Action – reducing environmental impact through smart reuse
- SDG 15: Life on Land – preserving cultural heritage and green spaces
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – innovative restoration techniques
Looking Ahead: Finding Potential in Every Site
Finding and purchasing properties with historical value and potential as unique residential projects is a key part of Istoir’s mission. Think schools, monasteries, factory sites, stately mansions… The process involves close collaboration with urban planning departments and architects to breathe new life into these sites while preserving their uniqueness. It’s a careful balance of honoring the past and embracing the future, making sure every project tells a story worth sharing.
