At one with the environment Nestled in the middle of the woods, among the fens, is Brouwhuis, a house of modest proportions but with phenomenal views of the surrounding area. The architect behind it is Jacq. de Brouwer of Bedaux de Brouwer Architecten: ‘This house truly embodies what I stand for: relating a building to the environment gives it an air of timelessness.’

The house needed to be designed in such a way that there was a maximum relationship with the environment. The house is 27 metres long and 6 metres wide. Inside, all functions are connected linearly. The wall is closed on one side, where cars and walkers pass by. This was also done because there is now a road that runs through the woods, parallel to this closed wall. However, a glass entrance was added. On the closed side, there is a block containing all technical equipment. This element has been made bigger and more sculptural so that it resembles a chimney. In contrast, the other side of the house is largely open thanks to the many windows and slim aluminium profiles by Reynaers. The aluminium windows were coated to create a matte, almost steely look. Triple glazing reduces cold downdraughts to a minimum.

Guest in the landscape One striking element of the house is the concrete platform it sits on. ‘This has both a functional and aesthetic purpose,’ says De Brouwer. ‘It’s practical because as a resident, you are higher than the walkers and cars passing by. In addition, it makes the house look like a stiletto-wearing guest in the landscape, so the house claims less space.’