Dune Villa

Utrecht, The Netherlands

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Focal point for the city quarter ‘de Muntel’.

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Dune Villa

Utrecht, The Netherlands

Firm

HILBERINKBOSCH architecten

Type

Residential › Private House

STATUS

Built

YEAR

2014

SIZE

5000 sqft - 10,000 sqft

Photos

René de Wit (11), Rene de Wit (5)

The Netherlands is relatively flat. Thus, a site with a height difference of 20 feet provides unique possibilities. HilberinkBosch Architects was asked to fully exploit the qualities of the plot while designing a luxurious villa.

The plot exists of three areas: dense vegetation toward the street, a large open space on the front side of the terrain, and an open pine forest on the backside of the plot, which is characteristic for the area. An offshoot from the ‘Utrechtse Heuvelrug’ provides a significant height difference.

The villa is situated on the northeast side of the lot, in and on the sand dune. The residence is also made of three volumes: the main living area, guestrooms, and a garage. Together they enclose a cultivated courtyard, the only area on the plot where man directs nature.

The main areas of the residence, such as living room, kitchen, workspace, master bedroom, roof terrace, and library, are situated on the first floor, which provides the best setting toward the forest. Because of the setting on top of the sand dune, one can walk straight out into the forest.

In the dune on ground level, the guestrooms, fitness, sauna, and pool are situated. Because of its large glass sliding doors, the pool has an outside feel, but is also functional during winter.

The connection between the floors is made in two specific places: a closed core that holds an elevator, stairs, and backdoor; and a main entrance with double floor height and a spectacular spiral stair. The main entrance also provides space for large artworks, business receptions, and even small theatre performances.

Floating concrete floors occasionally connected by robust brick walls emphasize the slope and the character of the terrain.

Materials which are released on the building site are reused whenever possible. Piet Hein Eek designs doors for the villa from felled trees. The excavated sand is used in the concrete walls and floors. The building is deeply connected with its location and feels natural, a unique building on a unique plot.

Landscape design: Martien van Osch, Bureau Oslo