Dune Villa

The plot exists of three areas: dense vegetation towards 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 also consists of three volumes: the main living area, guestrooms, and a garage. Together they enclose a cultivated courtyard, the only area on the plot where nature is directed by man.

The main areas of the residence – living room, kitchen, workspace, master bedroom, roof terrace, and library – are situated on the first floor which provides the best setting towards 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 on two specific places: a closed core which holds an elevator, stairs and backdoor and a main entrance with double-floor height and a spectacular spiral stairs. The main entrance also provides space for large art works, 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 designed doors for the villa from felled trees and the excavated sand is used in the concrete walls and floors. Doing this, the building is deeply connected with its location, it feels natural – a unique building on a unique plot.