Huis&Tuin | B2A Architects

Huis and Tuin is a 30m2 extension of a private dwelling in Meerkerk, The Netherlands. The design works in complement with existing structures to create a blended interior-exterior garden room, or “tuinkamer.” At dike level, the existing dwelling’s main living spaces connect to a leafy southwest-facing garden. The insertion of the extension in this composition frames the connection between indoors and outdoors, and facilitates it with a gridded sequence of spaces that curate this transition.

The series of spaces extend from the main living area, to the ground floor, and then from indoor ground floor to outdoor garden level, emphasising a subtle, but clear spatial gradient. The home’s main floor spaces are organised hierarchically; these consist of an informal kitchen, antichambre, and spacious living room.

The extension's bright red aluminium facade expression offers an assertive interpretation of this rather traditional typology, as it is both a connected and independent element, flexible enough to be adapted to multiple purposes and spatial requirements depending on family events, season, condition, or mood. As such, it may be viewed as a uniform shell that adapts with the occupants’ requirements.

“The extension of this program is in fact a consolidation. It is at once indoors and outdoors with an adjacent terrace space accommodating extended occupation throughout the seasons.”

- B2A Founding Partner, Louise Bjørk

Its structural design reinforces this “place apart” as it comprises a self-supporting structural and tektonic table base element, independent of the home’s main structure. The juxtaposition of the robustness of the support with the extension’s volume is its principal visual trope, manifested in the contrast between the dramatic red hues of the structure with the semi-opaque mirror box above. The aluminium fenestration in combination with the airy glass facade individuates both the object above and the structure below.

Its cherry-red aluminium facade has a blanc anodized coating ensuring corrosion resistance and a long lifespan. Complementing this outspoken exterior, is a mediterranean-inspired red pattern tiled floor. White stucco walls quietly frame the space, putting the focus on the family life and activity inside.   

In addition to rooftop solar panels, all of the extension’s window openings are triple glazed, offsetting any additional heating demands with solar power, and an air-tight building envelope. 

Lead Architects: Louise Bjørk and Tjerk Boom

Photography: MWA Hart Nibbrig (https://www.mwahartnibbrig.com/)