Despite its distinctly geometric form, the Dune House could almost be mistaken for one of the sandy formations that surround it. The home, which is situated on the small island of Terschelling in the northern Netherlands, is clad in a silvery natural wood that easily blends with the sand and windswept grass. The neutral palette chosen by Dutch architect Marc Koehler gives the impression that the home appeared from the earth and was carved by the wind, sea and sun.
At harmony with its environment, the exterior nonetheless shifts and changes depending on the angle from which it is viewed. From one angle, a transparent pentagonal shape is cut into the sloped facade, while another angle is entirely opaque. Topped with a sharply sloping roof, the sea-facing facade is a simple wall of glazing that frames extraordinary views of the North Sea.
The interior layout is mostly open with a staircase that spirals upwards in a series of platforms. Each platform is situated a few steps above the previous one, and each platform is designed oriented according to its specific function. The layout offers constantly changing vantage points, imitating the experience of clambering over sand dunes.
The home is partially energy sufficient thanks to solar panels and a biomass run fireplace. Passive methods of heating and cooling were included and the use of modular prefabricated wooden panels reduced total construction time, ensuring that the home is not just physically at home in its environment but also philosophically.
Images © Filip Dujardin
Architects: Marc Koehler Architects
Location: Terschelling, Netherlands
Architect In Charge: Carlos Moreira
Area: 180.0 m²
Year: 2015
Execution Manager: Thomas Welink, Annemarie Swemmer
Design Team: Kasia Heijerman, Miriam Tocino, Anna Szcsurek, Jakub Zoha
Technical Description And Execution: AchterboschZantman architecten
Builder: P.A. Wiersma Aannemingsmaatschappij BV
Interior Builder: Koen Vieugel
Installations: Bakker Installatietechniek
Glazing Construction: Huijberts Gevelbouw