For the interior of this rural villa in Brabant, the exterior designed by Lenz Architects was used as a starting point. In turn, its design explicitly took into account the client’s wishes. The result is a distinctive residence that best reflects the successful collaboration between all parties involved. Keywords are unity and tranquility. Within it, the materials used create tension. Thus, different types of wood and stone were used to denote the features. Both interior and exterior architectural elements interlock, allowing the design to modestly blend into its surroundings.

A prominent place in the interior is reserved for the white-steel staircase, which appears to act as a hinge in a modest bend of the villa. It is a sculptural element that can be seen. Literally. A transparent portal was created around the stairs with wooden slats, making the stairs visible from different angles. The steps are covered in leather, which adds to the warm look of this eye-catcher. At the front of the villa, the staircase forms a beautiful interplay of lines with the concrete elements leading to the entrance.

Photos: René Gonkel, René van Dongen

Text: Paul Geerts