Shadow barn
Shadow barn comprises the renovation and extension of a former farmhouse, situated in the very south of the Netherlands, close to the Belgium border. While the renovation of the existing farmhouse focuses on the preservation of it’s historic elements and in particular it’s spatial layout, characterised by small rooms and low ceilings, the spatial plan of the modern extension intends the opposite, providing the new owners with large and open spaces where functions are defined in a less compelling way.
Maintaining the old and adding a new spatial quality was the main design strategy. In the contemporary extension the different zones of the program, such as the kitchen, living room or dining area are no longer separated by walls, but distinguished by the arrangement of the floor plan. Areas for cooking and “chilling” are defined by a freestanding furniture element. The dining area is “pulled out” the abstract volume in order to provide more privacy and to open up to the surrounding nature at the same time.
Views are approached as an integral part of the spatial design. A folding window at the front facade allows flexibel use and a smooth transition between inside and outside while a large panoramic window at the back offers a magnificent view of the wide landscape in the proximity and far horizon.
After completion, the interior of the old farmhouse still reminds of the traditional, simpel life of the peasant family, that once lived there, while the contemporary extension opens up and intervenes with the surroundings and nature.
“the footprint of the extension might be seen as an exaggerated figuration of the early morning shadow of the little farmhouse. Favourite spot for gathering family and friends is the dining area, situated outside the main volume, offering impressive views to the surrounding landscape and framing the church tower silhouette, just at the other side of the border.”
