Villa on top of a dike

They have been living for years at this location, in a compact prefabricated house that was built in the late 70s. Moving somewhere else was not an option because of the unique and quiet location, near the city and with a beautiful view. The proximity of family, friends and work were also considerations. A new, more spacious house at the same location, with nicer materials, a welcoming appearance which retained the wide view over the polder, became the new ambition of the family.
Their ambition has been realised on top of a dike along the Zweth stream. The old house was demolished and a spacious villa, interspersed with patios, has taken its place. The view is uninterrupted and the villa has an almost Mediterranean atmosphere due to its location and the materials used.
The house is characterized by the large overhanging roof that defines a strong horizontally articulated volume. Below the perforated roof plane are the living and bedroom areas, separated by two patios. The house is generously lit whilst shaded by the overhanging concrete roof.
The layout of the rooms gives the house a playful and surprisingly spacious effect with mostly diagonal sight lines. The planted patios play an important orientation role.
The use of dark coloured wood in the house gives the interior a warm atmosphere in contrast to the use of rough concrete, natural stone and brickwork.
The light colour of the floor finish continues on the terrace, making the exterior part of the interior. The large, full height windows reinforce this.
The location on top of the dike has determined the design of the external spaces around the house. The lush garden with plants, trees and a pergola extends down to the lower polder level, via steps and a water feature along the inclined dike embankment.
In short, a true metamorphosis. From a simple 1970s kit house to a comfortable and modern villa with a Mediterranean look, overlooking the Dutch polder landscape with a view of the picturesque village 't Woudt in the distance.