zecc architecten clads 'steel craft' house in corten steel façade in utrecht, the netherlands

zecc architecten has transformed a former garage into ‘steel craft’ house, a wooden residence clad in a corten steel façade. located in utrecht‘s wittevrouwen district, the project distinguishes itself in terms of material, but seeks connection with the surrounding neighborhood through form, composition and detail. the house has been developed in close collaboration with the clients, who have handcrafted most elements of its construction themselves.all images by stijnstijl photography

for the home’s façade, zecc architecten has translated the typical characteristics of a working-class dutch house into the steel cladding, including the façade layout, roof with a dormer window, and chimney. while differentiating itself from the neighboring buildings through the choice of material, the building relates to it through form and and composition. additionally, the discoloration of the corten steel alludes to the patina of the traditional dutch brick, further enhancing the connection with the surroundings.

the openings in the façade each have their own character, forming an abstract composition while responding to the function that is housed behind them. the typical dormer window is translated into a cantilevered, closed surface with a narrow light gap at the top, providing privacy to the bathroom nearby. the second element on the first floor is a mini loggia, behind which the living area is located. 

behind the hard, somewhat closed-off steel façade, the soft and bright interior of the three-story home is formed by sculptural oak furniture. additional daylight enters through a patio on the back of the house, as well as through various skylights. what makes the project so special for zecc architecten is the close collaboration with the clients, who realized almost the entire project themselves.

project info:

name: steel craft house

architect: zecc architecten

location: utrecht, the netherlands

floor area: 120 m2