Perched on a natural dune and surrounded by dense greenery, Villa on a Dune is embedded within a protected cityscape. Rather than imposing itself on the landscape, the architecture responds to the site’s topography, vegetation, and ecological sensitivity. Existing trees were preserved and used as spatial anchors, guiding the footprint and orientation of the house. The height difference across the site informed a split-level strategy that minimises visual impact while maintaining living space.

Architectural strategy

To reduce its presence within the landscape, the villa is divided into an above-ground pavilion and a concealed underground volume. This structure allows the building to remain visually light while accommodating all programmatic requirements. The approach supports environmental performance and landscape preservation by limiting excavation and surface disturbance.

Above-ground living

The above-ground level is defined by transparency and openness. Exspansive glass façades with slim profiles reduce the boundary between interior and exterior, drawing daylight into the plan and framing views of the surrounding greenery. A free-flowing floor plan is punctuated by enclosed wooden volumes that house private spaces, creating a balance between openness and retreat.

Mansonia wood is used for interior volumes and external slatted screens, providing passive solar shading. These screens temper sunlight on exposed façades, reducing heat gain and supporting indoor comfort. A cantilevered roof sits above the glass enclosure, supported where necessary by cross-shaped steel columns, adding a sense of lightness and precision.

Subterranean spaces

The underground level accommodates functional spaces such as the garage, hobby room, and guest accommodation, benefiting from stable ground temperatures. Landscape cuts allow daylight and views into these spaces, while a sunken terrace enables direct outdoor access.

Exposed concrete is used throughout the underground interiors. Its colour references the surrounding dune sand, establishing material continuity between architecture and landscape. Board-marked concrete surfaces remain visible in select exterior areas, extending into retaining walls that anchor the villa into the dune.

Holistic interior design

Architecture, interior design, lighting, and landscape were conceived as an integrated system. Details including built-in furniture, concealed doors, stair railings, and bathrooms were custom designed to ensure consistency throughout.

Sustainability and environmental performance

The villa is designed to operate as an energy-neutral residence. A ground-source heat pump provides heating and cooling, while rooftop photovoltaic panels generate on-site electricity. Triple-glazed façades with sun-resistant glass, combined with roof overhangs and wooden screens, limit overheating during summer months. Rainwater is collected from the roof and reused for garden irrigation, reducing demand on municipal systems. These measures align comfort and performance within a sensitive natural setting.

Nestled within the gently undulating dune landscape of the Dutch coast, this private villa lies secluded amidst dense pine trees and shrubs. Designed by the architecture firm WillemsenU, the building follows the natural topography of the site and blends seamlessly into its surroundings. The architecture is defined by a clear, horizontal structure, with openings placed deliberately and a material palette of timber, exposed concrete, and glass. Extended rooflines and the lightweight construction lend the house a floating quality, while the open floor plan enables a way of living closely attuned to nature and the changing seasons.

minimal windows® as a spatial element 

Nearly the entire product range of minimal windows® is used in this project – from expansive sliding elements and slender fixed glazing to elegant pivot doors. Floor-to-ceiling glass surfaces with minimal sightlines enable maximum transparency and create a visual fusion between interior and landscape. Even in the lower level, large sliding units ensure bright, welcoming spaces and a direct connection to the sloped side of the plot. The systems not only facilitate a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors, but also take on a defining role in shaping the architectural expression of the house.