Dutch practice Marc Koehler Architects have designed the Dune House in Terschelling island, the Netherlands. The programmatic design of this house is inspired by the natural landscape of dunes, and offers a variety of viewpoints, from intimate, submerged perspectives to expansive, elevated views of the sea. The different areas of the house are connected by a spiral pathway, which winds around the central core of the building, which serves as technical space, fireplace, and bookcase.
The split-level floors, which function as large steps, connect the private underground spaces (bedrooms) with the upper-level living, dining, and relaxation spaces, each of which offers its own unique connection to the surrounding landscape. The contemporary open interior space is enclosed by a traditional facade and roof structure to meet local government requirements. The silhouette of the house reflects both the local architectural style of pitched and turtle roof types and the topography of the natural landscape.
The house is made almost entirely of innovative, eco-friendly materials and features energy-efficient installations, such as a unique wooden cross-laminated structure, a wooden roofing system, and a central heating system based on biofuel, which minimize its CO2 footprint.
Photography: Filip Dujardin