In a forest near Vogelenzang, David Windt and Jeroen Derksen have designed a contemporary villa that revolves entirely around the experience of the environment. The house is oriented towards two views; one on the naturally open part of the plot and the other towards the bulb fields visible through the woods. The house is a connected series of pleasant spaces to stay, with views of the impressive trees between the vertical elements and an ever-changing experience of daylight.
The plot is a unique place with an open area enclosed by a mature forest. The client purchased this plot where the zoning plan asked for a traditional building volume. derksen|windt architects felt that this was not a respectful response to the environment. They suggested another design in which almost monumental views between vertical parts respond to the beautiful trees. The house is sunken so that it is part of the landscape, with a sheltered, private bedroom floor downstairs and the living area upstairs overlooking the surroundings.
The clients' request was to create a place where they can gather with family and friends, both indoors and outdoors. The architects translated this into the leading concept; creating a house as a covered outside fire pit, where one is always sheltered but also always feeling outside. This resulted in the design consisting of vertical elements (wall and fireplace), with openings in between (with or without frame), covered with a roof as the protective part. Each space inside connected to an outdoor space, with minimal transitions.
Each room in the house starts from the core, where the entrance with the organically designed steel staircase with skylight form the heart of the house. Two copper fireplaces protrude through the house on both sides, this is where the twist takes place. From there, all walls, passageways, but also the tiles and cabinets are aligned. Everything is designed in a size system and in relation to each other; the openings in the facades, the dimensions of the rooms, the placement of the entrance and stairs, the terraces and the vertical walls and columns. The architects believe that you feel and experience this.
Achieving the desired dimensions and clarity of the vertical and horizontal elements was complex, but it is essential in realizing the desired idea. Despite its dimensions, the villa feels refined and appropriate due to the attention to detail in every indoor and outdoor space.
It is a sustainable home that is designed in such a way that less energy is required, partly due to the overhangs, the more closed north facade and the high-quality insulation. However, the biggest gain according to the architects is the placement on the shape, which allowed the greenery to be preserved, with many nature-inclusive facilities for birds and insects being installed.