studio AAAN designs house zevenhuizen as a 'pure black sculpture' in the netherlands

on the outskirts of a dutch village, studio AAAN’s house zevenhuizen is designed as a modern home that fits into a rural environment. located on a site in the zuidplaspolder, which is a low-lying area of reclaimed land, the sculptural black form of the recent intervention makes a strong visual impact on the patchwork landscape of greenhouses, farmlands and traditional dwellings.

all images © sebastian van damme

the simple form of the house makes it seem like a classical barn from afar, a shape which is emphasized by the minimal detailing. this archetypal shape is also strengthened by the continuation of materiality from roof to elevation, making for one seamlessly clad surface. within this sold black sculpture, the rotterdam-based architecture firm has inserted a large glazed element, which effectively breaks up the monolithic appearance of the building while also serving to bring swathes of natural light into a double height dining space.

the living areas of the house are positioned on the east and south sides. large openings have been made in the volume to create a strong visual connection with the surrounding garden. this way both the morning and the afternoon sun can be enjoyed. a spacious loft connects the living room with the landing on the bedroom floor. the entrance and service areas are positioned on the west and north sides of the house. openings have been minimized at this size, so that the sober black shape remains strongly visible from the street elevation.

in the heart of the house, stairs, wardrobe, a toilet and fireplace are combined in a central ‘piece of furniture’. this piece of furniture is made of oak wood forming a striking warm contrast with the dark black cladding outside. fiber cement slates were chosen for the materialization of the exterior. by applying these slates, a sharp detailing can be applied in which the transition from façade to roof can be realized almost seamlessly.