buitenhuis by VLOT architects is a low-carbon, modular timber structure in the netherlands

VLOT architects has completed the buitenhuis or country house — a timber structure interwoven with its immediate surroundings located in heinenoord, netherlands. measuring only 54 square meters in size, this house makes sure you are connected with nature thanks to its almost transparent façade that can be opened completely, blurring the boundary between interior and exterior. the awning also contributes to this, creating an intermediate zone.

images courtesy of VLOT architects

even if small, the buitenhuis by VLOT architects expands its total area when there’s good weather as the entire deck can be experienced as floor space, increasing the total area to 210 m2. the floor has been slightly raised in relation to the ground level so that the garden extends partly under the country house. the platform partially cantilevers over the existing ditch that forms the boundary between the garden and the polder. from here, guests are able to enjoy great views of the ever-changing arable land.

the architecture practice made sure to keep the CO2 impact of this building as low as possible. to begin with, the house has been designed to be 100% modular, making it possible to prefabricate many of its components and then assemble them on site. the modular construction is laid out on a grid of 1.5 meters in two directions. larch cross columns have been placed on the grid to support the roof. the roof has been covered with moss that on the one hand acts as a water buffer and on the other as an integration of greenery.

the buitenhuis is also all-electric and uses electric underfloor heating, electric boilers and electric cooking. the elevation in the roof allows warm air to rise while the overhangs provide passive sun protection. In addition, the almost fully openable façade ensures that the wind can blow through the house.

project info:

name: buitenhuis / country house
design: VTOL architects
client: private
location: heinenoord, netherlands
size: 54m2 
design: 2018 – 2019
construction: 2019 – 2020
manufacturer: transistor, gouda
installation advisor: kusters bouwadvies, hendrik-ido-ambacht