A charming Dutch dwelling

Megan Harris Megan Harris
Moderne recreatiewoning, Bongers Architecten Bongers Architecten Modern Garden
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Dutch architects Bongers Architecten make a commitment to creating energy neutral homes that are adaptable to the increasingly diverse housing needs and spatial limitations of the modern world. This home design is available as one of the architectural studios pre-designed housing options. 

It was originally envisaged as a holiday home, suitable for between four and six people. The client can select the roof finish from the following materials; reeds, pans, zinc or shingle. Further material selections can be made elsewhere in the design to customise the aesthetic to that of the individual clients. Now, let's take a look through this interesting and innovative design!

The enclosure

The simple rectangular form is dominated by the steep pitch of the gabled roof that extends down the back wall to form a continuous surface that encases the home

A void is carved out of the rectangular plan at the garden facing corner to create an inlet that is sheltered under the roof line. Here, the timber posts, beams, and rafters are left exposed. There is an honesty of construction that is welcome in the otherwise highly finished and perfectly concealed structure. 

The street facade

The roof and back wall are clad in zinc with a wide profile and finished in black. A white barge board strikingly contrasts the edgy and mysterious black enclosure. Much like at the other end of the home, the timber post, beam and rafter are left exposed. 

A wooden entrance compliments the natural, exposed timber of the structure. It stands in perfect alignment with the picket gate and narrow path, establishing a direct linear entrance route. 

Double height dining

The interior is simultaneously open plan and, in a way, compartmentalised. An interesting dynamic between connection and division is established. A double volume space leads off the recessed deck area and is marked by a large pane of glass, separating in from out. The dining space is housed within this grand volume that is rhythmically punctuated by the timber structure. For more dining room ideas, take a look here!

An overhead walkway forms a mezzanine of sorts at the top of the stairwell, creating a sense of connection between the two levels. The exterior zinc cladding is employed in the balustrade, creating a continuity between the exterior and interior finishes. The balustrade also features chicken wire—an unexpected and quirky touch!

The living space

The living area is housed within a single level volume, creating a cosier, more hunkered down atmosphere. Glass wraps the walls, establishing the ceiling and the floor as the two enclosing elements. 

The concrete floor is left exposed, while the ceiling is lined in plasterboard and finished in white. The glazed elements have recessed window heads, sills and jambs, creating a seamless aesthetic.

A closer look

The bright red couch adds a vibrant punch of colour and the modern fireplace forms a central feature around which the complementing furniture is arranged. The furniture is simple, contemporary and uncluttered, while the lovely sheer curtains add a softness to the space and promise a degree of privacy when one wishes to retreat. 

If you enjoyed browsing through this home, you may also like to take a look at A Home of Cubic Geometries and Simple Lines.

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