hilberinkbosch architecten renovates an old apple farm in the netherlands

for this renovation project, hilberinkbosch architecten has carefully converted part of an old apple farm in the dutch village of rossum. first built in 1862, the building was outdated and in need of some attention. while preserving the original timber and brick architecture, hilberinkbosch has broken through dark spaces to turn the dusty fruit storage into an elegant and contemporary dwelling.

images © inga powilleit

rossum is located in the middle of the netherlands and was first founded in 893. situated between two rivers, the area is known for fruit growing thanks to its fertile soil and nearby water. the fruit farm of this project features a typical architectural style from this region. the building has a protected status and bears the name ‘nooitgedacht’, which is a dutch word sometimes given to places, houses, and windmills. it means ‘something you never thought you could have’.

the clients live in the left half of the apple farm. it comprises a stately mansion at the front and a more modest storage and stable area. the design by hilberinkbosch architecten began by maximizing the existing high windows to guide daylight in and around the indoor spaces through a void and large glass fronts.

the façades have been largely retained to preserve the building’s history. on the left elevation, a bricked-up gate is opened again with glazed doors and an old closed hay shutter on the attic floor is replaced with new windows and a glass balustrade. in the rear façade of the former stable section, all the openings were previously bricked up or closed with a standard door frame. to create structure in the routing of the house, the two doorways are opened again.

one of the main features of the renovated interior is the large green staircase that leads inhabitants upstairs to sleeping accommodation and a green-tiled bathroom. alongside these contemporary insertions, traces from the history of the building can be found such as the old timber columns and exposed brick walls. these elements from past and present perfectly intertwine to create a timeless yet charming home.