Architects: NAMO Architecture, i29 architects
Year: 2023
Photography: Jeroen Musch
Manufacturers: JUNG, FLOS, Forbo Flooring, Foreco, Makon, Timmerfabriek Herman van den Brink
Structural Engineering: Geelhoed Engineering BV
Main Contractor: Hagoort Bouw B.V.
Landscape Design: Buroharro
Clients: Noud Paes, Jeroen Dellensen, Jaspar Jansen, Chris Collaris, Christian Hagoort
City: Arnhem
Country: The Netherlands
\srchitects NAMO Architecture and i29 architects unveiled Buitenplaats Koningsweg, a unique project at Hoge Veluwe National Park, Netherlands in 2023. It features 11 “follies” designed as holiday stays that beautifully blend into their wooded surroundings. These structures, particularly the Nest, are constructed with sustainable materials and techniques, ensuring minimal environmental impact while enhancing guests’ connection with nature. Each folly serves as a retreat for humans and as a sanctuary for local wildlife, embodying a perfect balance between architecture and nature.
Buitenplaats Koningsweg, located in the national park Hoge Veluwe (NL),is an artistic incubator surrounded by nature. This former barracks site is home to dozens of artists and creative entrepreneurs. A municipal project of Arnhem has seen the development of 11 follies within the woods, conceived as holiday stays. The design philosophy of ‘camouflage’ ties back to the site’s historical roots.
The follies offer a distinct architectural experience as they integrate seamlessly with the natural surroundings. The concept centers on the idea that the follies should not overpower the Buitenplaats or the natural environment, but rather coexist as a respectful addition. One folly, Nest, is designed to blend into the forest canopy, promoting a deep sense of tranquility and connectivity with nature.
Defined as a structure that serves an artistic or playful purpose, a folly here takes the form of the Nest, which echoes a birdhouse’s archetypal shape. Constructed with sustainable practices, Nest uses materials that minimize impact on health and the environment. It features energy-efficient all-electric installations and is well-insulated, with solar panels on its elevated roof adding to its sustainability.
Nest stands on slim, dark supports, and its design maximizes privacy and closeness to nature, positioned amidst the treetops. It serves as a retreat for people and support local wildlife, offering habitats for birds, insects, and other creatures. The structure’s main volume has three staggered layers, creating recesses for nesting boxes integrated into the facades, while its steel frame and underlying beams offer additional nesting sites.
The interior layout of Nest is intelligently designed to maximize space within its compact structure. At nearly 8 meters off the ground, the first level houses the kitchen and living area, which opens onto a terrace facing the sunrise and sunset. Innovative storage solutions and a smart layout provide a spacious feel, with expansive windows and sliding doors offering panoramic landscape views.
Project Gallery
Project Location
Address: Radarpad 56, 6816 TP Arnhem, Netherlands
Location is for general reference and may represent a city or country, not necessarily a precise address.
