Exclusive homes in Rijswijk Buiten are being developed at the cultural history location of the former monastery and estate of Sion. With its green and water-rich design and a diversity of sustainable homes, the by KOW and RROG design plan 'Eilandrijk' fits perfectly in this exclusive area development.
Urban design of the island
In the urban design of Eilandrijk, the allegory of an old farm and country estate has been used to shape a collective neighbourhood; with a 'gate', a 'courtyard' and the 'country house'.
The ‘gate’ with the 8 dwellings and the landscape bridge opens up the court of the island. The courtyard structure has a symmetrical layout and consists of an estate along which parking is provided in a green environment adjacent to a collective garden. With at one side 8 side-by-side mansions and on the other side 11 terraced houses with different beech sizes. At the end of the courtyard and the island are two water villas. Between the villas is a collective terrace on the water, with a view of the historic chimney and the waterways of Sion.
Identity and visual language
The architecture of the island has a distinctive identity with a modern imagery. There is a strong correlation between urban planning, architecture and landscape. The materials and colors form a suitable palette with the green natural environment. All facades are made of beige mixed bricks and dark stained wooden parts. Durable materials that age beautifully. Overhangs, canopies and pergolas made of wood form the connecting elements. The chimneys are iconic elements in the rhythm of the streetview.
In order to maintain the unity of the architecture of the different housing types, the volumes, facade rhythms and open/closed proportions are closely related, with longitudinal roofs that reinforce the cohesion. All houses have a full PV roof on the sun-oriented side of the saddle roof. The other side of the roof is fitted with a matching dark ceramic tile.
Architectural 'toolbox'
Various elements can be assembled from an architectural 'toolbox'. In this way, fences, decking and garden boxes become an integrally designed part of the homes and 'wild growth' is prevented. The optional extensions, bay windows and verandas have also been designed in conjunction and can also be assembled by buyers from this toolbox.
Zero-on-the-Meter
All homes are designed as Zero-on-the-Meter homes. The sustainable measures required for the NOM concept, such as heat pump, ground loops, monitoring system, inverter and PV panels, are financed by an external party. The buyers rent these installations with the option of purchase.
Like a 'boutique hotel' on the water
One of the Eilandrijk homes is inhabited by influencer Babette van der Spoel and her family. They have furnished and decorated their house as a 'boutique hotel'. With a luxury interior inspired by Italy and a beautiful terrace on the water. “It's like being on vacation all year round.”
