A very significant example of fusing architecture with nature is brilliantly conquered in the following project: Dutch Mountain is a house that stands partially buried in a mound of earth at a Dutch Nature Reserve. Its peculiar name reveals the concept behind the making of such a fine architectural statement: an artificial hill camouflages the entire building on its northern facade and creates an organic layer of insulation around the perimeter walls during the coldest season. Once again, an ecological footprint sets the premise for a sensitive use of Mother Nature resources.
The program responds to the man made topography: car access and front door are positioned in the covered part of the house while social and private areas are exposed on the southern and western sides where a generous paneled glazing wall folds the living room and kitchen.
All bedrooms, bathrooms and utility rooms are distributed at the rear of the residence in front of an exposed concrete wall that detaches them from the piled-up earth behind. The majestic glass facade is framed in timber as well as the terrace’s canopy. The frame is constructed out of lark wood, forested from the close surroundings and therefore turning it into a key element for a perfect blend between construction and nature.
Interior surfaces are composed by three predominant materials: wood paneling, exposed concrete and white painted stucco. However, there´s a small detail that offers the best of moments: a bubble glass window serves as a small playground for the most adventurous while providing an exquisite vantage point over the amazing landscape that surrounds the mountain house…
Architects: denieuwegeneratie
Photography: John Lewis Marshall
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