Holtien, In the countryside of Drenthe, near Dwingeloo, is home to a fully self-sufficient house. A house that, in the future, will not be connected to any electricity or water network. By applying sustainable techniques, the house is highly energy efficient. In addition, the materialization of both the interior and exterior are of recycled or reused products. B+O Architecture and Interior are responsible for this unique design. The house is heated by means of six solar collectors, heat pumps (for cold and heat storage at 150m below ground level) and a wood fire stove, jointly heating a water container with 1000 liters capacity. The wood fire stove provides additional comfort in colder months. 32 solar panels provide sufficient electricity.
The timber framed wall is 35 cm thick and completely insulated as is the 40cm thick roof. The facades consists of recycled brick walls and concrete tiles . The frames are finished with timber that was used in the scaffolding. Additionally, the recycled and reused materials of the interior consists of the kitchen counter being made from traffic signs; the bathroom walls being partly covered with the plastic dust hood of a truck and the wooden floors are of used brick partitions.
The self-sufficient house has recently been completed. The property generates enough energy for its own use, but there is still a problem with electricity storage. As soon as a responsible solution is found, the house will be disconnected from the grid.
