Summer dream home
Client vision and background
The Lake Pavilion project was conceived by the client as a tribute to the beloved holiday home built by the parents. The new villa is designed as a contemporary and, above all, cosy place for the family. The aim is to make full use of the property's potential while complying with strict building regulations, creating a generous and practical living environment.
Architectural brief and design philosophy
Our architectural solution focuses on maximising usability and comfort within a compact footprint. The design constraints are particularly challenging due to a strict above-ground volume limitation of 225 m³. To address these constraints, we propose a strategic layout that improves spatial experience and functionality without compromising comfort.
Innovative use of space
The villa is designed with an emphasis on smart, space-saving solutions:
- Bedrooms: The bedrooms in the basement are compact and inspired by the traditional Dutch ‘bed box’ and the efficient layouts in sailing ships. The beds are raised to create storage space. The advantage of underground bedrooms is that they suffer less from temperature fluctuations, due to the insulating effect of the earth. This means it can be cooler in summer and warmer in winter, which can lead to a more comfortable sleeping environment and potentially lower energy costs for heating and cooling. Moreover, sound insulation underground is excellent, as is the level of privacy.
- Living areas: The ground floor has a living room with sweeping views over the water. By extending the ceiling from inside into the exterior canopy, we created a seamless transition that enhances the sense of space. Partially glazed walkways allow natural light to reach the basement, removing the typical constraints of underground living. We designed a ceiling height of 2.3 metres to maximise the number of square metres to be built on. The view from inside to outside preserves the spatial feeling despite the limited height.
Maximizing light and views
To take advantage of the villa's picturesque location, large floor-to-ceiling windows frame the living room, providing unobstructed views of the water and flooding the space with natural light. The framework of the canopy is designed to make the blinds an integral part, creating the most tranquil image possible.
The choice of glass walkways and a strategic lighting design provide even more light in the bedrooms on the lower level, creating a welcoming atmosphere throughout the house.
Outdoor living enhancement
To enhance the comfort of living on and near the water, we have added an outdoor shower and an outdoor-only bathroom. These modifications are not only practical, but also enhance the connection with the natural environment and promote outdoor comfort.
Summary
The Lake Pavilion is a sample of innovative architectural design, with every square metre carefully designed with aesthetics, functionality and comfort in mind. This effort not only meets but enhances legal constraints, making them a highlight of the design. It provides a sustainable haven for the family.
Contractor: van Zoelen BV
Interior design: VOS - Bart Vos en Roel de Vos
Furniture maker: Leunissen Interieurbouw
Landscape architect: Hanneke Vroon
Photography: Frans Parthesius