Villa A, a masterpiece of sustainable design, is a testament to the harmonious coexistence of modern architecture and the natural world. Nestled within the serene dunes of Aerdenhout, this striking villa is the brainchild of Paul de Ruiter Architects. It embodies a deep-seated reverence for nature, setting an exemplary standard for sustainable living while seamlessly blending into the adjacent Natura2000 nature reserve.
This exceptional abode places a paramount emphasis on respecting and preserving the surrounding environment. The architectural marvel comprises a floating glass volume with a captivating twist – it was ingeniously designed to safeguard two majestic Scots pine trees. This thoughtful approach ensures an organic flow around the trees without the need for their removal.
The floating part of the house seemingly hovers above the ground, with substantial overhangs at both ends. A gently sloping landform seamlessly connects this floating volume with the garden, gracefully integrating the children’s living spaces within its contours. Nature takes center stage through deliberate incisions in the landform, reducing the impact on the pristine surroundings while offering high-quality living spaces.
Villa A unfolds as a two-story residence, with one level partially submerged within the landscape. As one enters the villa, a spacious and transparent entry hall welcomes you. Access to this tranquil oasis is gained through the overhanging area, leading to a floating staircase that descends to the ground floor, the heart of the villa. Here, you’ll find a generously proportioned living room, a central kitchen with an adjoining dining area, a study, and a master bedroom with an en-suite bathroom.
The layout of the living space is thoughtfully angled to provide a different perspective of the surrounding nature from each room. The subtle elevation of this floor above ground level creates an enchanting illusion of living amongst the tree trunks, making you feel as though you are a part of the forest.
The lower level of the house conceals several bedrooms, each complete with an en-suite bathroom, a utility room, and ample storage space. The interior spaces are characterized by the use of materials in their most authentic form – walls, floors, and ceilings have been cast in place with minimal additional finishing, employing only the essential materials. Various interior elements are crafted from oak, adding warmth and a touch of nature to the living spaces.
The villa’s exterior is a reflection of its eco-conscious design. The facade, adorned with reflective glass, mirrors the lush green surroundings, creating a mesmerizing interplay of lines. The entire structure is seamlessly integrated into the landscape, with the undulating terrain enfolding the villa, including the spacious terrace featuring a captivating pool and the access road. Remarkably, these elements are constructed from the same materials and in the same forms as the villa itself. A canopy edge at both the top and bottom of the volume creates the illusion that the villa is suspended, disconnected from its surroundings, further emphasizing the harmony between architecture and nature.
One of the most outstanding features of Villa A is its self-sufficiency. The villa is an energy-neutral haven, a marvel of sustainability. It owes its remarkable energy efficiency to its integration within the well-insulated ground body, as well as the use of triple-insulated glass. Energy generation is a key aspect of this sustainable gem, with heat pumps and solar cells installed on the biodiverse green roof.
This green roof not only helps in energy generation but also serves as a reservoir for rainwater, nurturing biodiversity by providing nesting opportunities for birds, bats, and bees. The floating portion of the villa, constructed using steel and wood, stands as a testament to innovative and sustainable building practices. The construction process itself, employing mostly electric construction equipment and nitrogen-free methods, is a model of eco-friendly building practices.
In conclusion, Villa A stands as a beacon of sustainable living and architectural brilliance. It’s a sanctuary where nature and modernity coalesce, resulting in a residence that respects, preserves, and seamlessly integrates into its natural surroundings. This villa serves as a testament to the possibility of living in harmony with nature, providing the residents with a luxurious and environmentally responsible abode. Villa A is not merely a house; it’s a living testament to the future of sustainable architecture.
Photos by Tim van de Velde.