In Rotterdam Zestienhoven stands a modern newly built villa that deliberately distances itself from traditional villa construction. Together with the residents, a design was developed in which light, space, and materials come together in a clear, contemporary architect-designed home.
Architecture with many faces
The villa was designed from the relationship between the home and its surroundings. The approach follows a pond that leads toward the entrance and slows the transition to the house. Large expanses of glass make the home open and transparent. Green façades soften the volume and connect the architecture with the garden. From every position, a different reading of the house emerges.
Spatial coherence and routing
Inside, a long, bright circulation space forms the backbone of the house. It connects the entrance, kitchen and living room in one flowing movement. The kitchen overlooks the water and brings calm to everyday use. A continuous wall of cabinets connects the ground floor and upper floor and strengthens the spatial coherence. The staircase is also part of this whole, with light, restrained detailing. In the living room, large openings and sightlines create a continuous relationship with the outdoors.
Living in relation to the garden
The garden is not an addition, but part of the design. The water runs alongside the house and reinforces the transition between inside and outside. Large window sections draw the greenery inside and make the landscape tangible in every space. Inside and outside flow into one another. The house opens toward the garden, while at the same time preserving peace and a sense of shelter.
