The aura of space, simplicity and purity that characterize this residence in a Dutch coastal town are no happy accident, for it was conceived for a couple whose lives are undergirded by the spiritual and physical well-being of Buddhism, yoga and healthy eating. Before its complete renovation, however, it was a dark and claustrophobic church.

The designer began this transformation into the bright, open and contemporary residence it is today by installing a huge spherical window in the upper part of the east wall, drawing in as much natural light as possible, with the ceiling serving as a giant daylight reflector after it was painted. He then chose dark, heavy natural materials to offer as carefully considered counterpoints, promoting a tasteful contrast of lightness and solidity.