Eco Villas

Aesthetic and social sustainability in rural housing


De Erven is a neighborhood situated south of Het Onderdijks near the river Ijssel and a beautiful, new nature reserve. The historic center of Kampen is within cycling distance and the Hanze Rail Track provides a fast connection to Amsterdam. For this area seven special island villas have been designed. These villas will be built near the Venedijk on three islands which are covered with old trees. The large, transparent villas harmonize with the local architecture which is characterized by beautiful roof-constructions rising out of the landscape.

The villas have remarkable, twisted roof sections set at a 45 degree angle. They are reminiscent of faceted gemstones. It is an impressive sight, both from within and without, with its play of dynamic lines and surfaces. The roof sections remain open and create different living areas reaching sometimes to a height of 4.80 meters. The design for every villa is based upon multiple, single-layer modules sized either 6 × 6, 3 × 6 or 9 × 6 meters. For these modules various plans have been developed. By connecting these modules in varied ways, a unique floor plan is created. The plans offer three or four bedrooms, walk-in closets if desired, very spacious bathrooms, a large living room with open kitchen, pantry and carport. The areas range from approximately 204 m2 to 265 m2 of gross floor surface. The islands are also man-made. The villas and the islands blend in with the rural nature of the area.


The design takes full advantage of the southern exposure, the presence of the water and the existing trees. The villas are built with natural materials such as wood and natural stone. Only ‘local’ materials have been used, and most of it is also recyclable. Most important is the sustainability aspect: the villas should have a comfortable indoor temperature, a good quality of indoor air and low energy consumption. The villas are equipped with a highly efficient and innovative energy system utilizing LED lights and solar collectors. Also, there is a proper balance between walls and windows which reduces the need for artificial light and heating during the winter.
The hot water system is based on solar energy which results in a 40% saving of energy. Heating and cooling is obtained through floor heating in order to maintain the right humidity level in the house. Houtwerk Hattem makes the kitchens out of elm wood from the nearby Noordoostpolder. The master blacksmith, Sven Lang from Kampen, designs the cast iron railings for the bridges.





Location Kampen, the Netherlands
Client Domeco Sustainable Projects, Amsterdam
Design PEÑA architecture & Studio Oblique
Architect Gabriel Peña & Samir Bantal
General advisor Pieters Bouwtechniek, Amsterdam
ImagesS Gabriel Peña & Samir Bantal
Gross area 1725 m2 (housing), 4975 m2 (islands)
Status on hold

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