intertwined roofs crown mid 60's renovated structuralist house in the netherlands

Studio Olm takes over renovation project in the Netherlands

Nestled on the outskirts of Broek in Waterland, a quaint village just north of Amsterdam, two 1966 residences undergo a renovation and extension by Studio Olm. Originally designed by Gert Boon, a pioneer of Dutch structuralism, the two houses, crafted for two sisters, retain their original charm standing intertwined under seven roofs. Studio Olm approaches the project with deep respect for the existing architectural integrity, preserving the pied-à-terre in its untouched state, and seamlessly blending tradition with modernity. The new owners’ need for more space leads to the expansion of the structure and the addition of a bedroom, an indoor studio, and an enlarged living area with a connecting terrace to embrace the surrounding garden. The barn-like structure, with its rhythmic grid and playful geometric shifts, harmonizes with the neighboring houses and farmland, offering a unique charm.

the central fireplace and enclosed seating area have been retained | all images by Rene Mesman

renovation preserves original structuralist design principles

Studio Olm‘s design strategy embraces the essence of structuralism, ensuring that the extension becomes an integral part of the original concept. Taming the existing grid, the supporting structure gracefully extends outward, stripped down to its skeletal elegance. The result is a structural framework that blurs the boundaries between facade and pergola, creating a fluid transition between old and new, indoor and outdoor spaces. Enclosing the existing double-height covered terrace and adding a floor prevents the extension from imposing on the garden while adding a generous living and working space. The partially elevated extension, seemingly floating above the grass on stilts, gives the impression that the building is a guest in its own garden—an architectural dialogue between history and innovation.

a spacious loft sits adjacent to the house’s original staircase

the geometric staircase, windows, and cupboards, characteristic of structuralism, retain their forms

the light-filled extension provides access to the floating terrace

the skylight marks the transition between the existing and new construction

the elevated terrace floats above the garden offering views of the surrounding farmlands

project info:

name: Extension of House in Broek in Waterland
architect: Studio Olm | @studio_olm

structural engineer: Van Eden bouwconstructies

BV contractor: MASA bouw

kitchen design: Jeroen Wand

decoration: Studio aandacht

location: Broek in Waterland, Netherlands

photography: Rene Mesman | @renemesmanphotography

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom