In February 2022, I was approached by clients with a special residential wish in the outlying area of Sint-Oedenrode.
The design question involved a new detached house to replace the existing house. So far, not so unusual, as this question is not uncommon. But the house also had to be very energy-efficient, be realized using natural, reusable and detachable materials wherever possible, be self-built if possible and provide a green home for two brothers with their partners. A “co-home” as I have come to think of the house.
Over the past few years, I have worked together with the clients at a quiet but steady pace on a design that answers the functional-spatial design question, fits within the set frameworks and budget, and does justice to the shared vision for this special place in the Rooise landscape.
In the preliminary planning process, we certainly could not have done it without the help of Dirk Kastelijn who took care of the spatial consultancy work.
With the approval and appreciation of the aesthetics committee for both design and the design drawing(!) in its pocket, the municipality also gave its cooperation to the plans.
Over the past period, the client has already laid out the landscape garden and prepared the plot for the construction of the new home. A background as a landscaper comes in handy for this, of course.
Reused cattle fencing now forms the path to the new home and several trees have been planted for additional future shelter and shade.
As you can see, all that remains now is the house itself.
Early this week, the piles were drilled and at this time, the wood frame construction is continuing. In the coming time, the basement, foundation and first floor will be made.
Very grateful that I get to work with these enthusiastic and inspiring clients on their special “home together. It always remains beautiful to experience how designing an energy efficient home can give so much design energy.
To be continued!
