Villa Zilverzandstraat
A unique living experience in dialogue with its surroundings
The location on Zilverzandstraat in Heerlen presented a compelling architectural challenge: a spacious, north-oriented plot with a significant elevation gain from street level. These specific characteristics inspired a unique Y-shaped design that optimizes the site’s inherent qualities. While the Y-shape allows the villa to establish a striking presence on Zilverzandstraat, it simultaneously carves out space for three distinct outdoor areas. Through this chosen geometry, the villa divides the plot into three zones, each with its own character and function.
Three outdoor spaces, three distinct qualities
The reception garden is situated on the southeast side of the plot. Here, the villa makes an embracing gesture, forming a backdrop for a sculptural artwork near the entrance. The main garden, located to the southwest, is entirely focused on outdoor living. On this side, a continuous canopy provides essential protection from the summer sun, allowing interior and exterior spaces to merge seamlessly. At the rear of the plot lies a serene "viewing garden," offering a wide, diagonal perspective across the full depth of the site. Additionally, a secluded patio garden is nestled in the heart of the villa.
A natural gradation of privacy
The design employs a clear logic in its routing, where the transition from the public street side to the private living areas unfolds gradually. From street level, one rises steadily to the level of the plot, where the villa and the main garden slowly reveal themselves. The path leads from the entrance through the studio to the central living space, ultimately culminating in the private sleeping quarters.
Living spaces oriented toward context
The studio is the first functional space along the main route and serves as an intermediary toward the living areas. This space is oriented toward the main garden and benefits from northern daylight filtered through the patio.
The living area is located in the western volume and is oriented in two directions: the sun-drenched garden to the southwest and the tranquil garden to the north. Centrally positioned within the building is the kitchen, featuring a direct view into the patio garden.
The sleeping wing is located at the end of the route, consisting of two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms. The master bedroom offers access to the entirely private patio—a refined addition to the three primary outdoor spaces. The en-suite bathroom features a large bay window oriented toward the morning sun from the east. Stained-glass panels ensure privacy for the bath while casting vibrant colors into the space as they catch direct sunlight.
A distinctive living experience
The meticulous positioning of the building’s volume and the careful direction of sightlines result in a villa that offers both a sense of security and an active interaction with its surroundings. The site’s conditions have been translated into a functional and extraordinary living experience.
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The location on Zilverzandstraat in Heerlen presented a compelling architectural challenge: a spacious, north-oriented plot with a significant elevation gain from street level. These specific characteristics inspired a unique Y-shaped design that optimizes the site’s inherent qualities. While the Y-shape allows the villa to establish a striking presence on Zilverzandstraat, it simultaneously carves out space for three distinct outdoor areas. Through this chosen geometry, the villa divides the plot into three zones, each with its own character and function.
Three outdoor spaces, three distinct qualities
The reception garden is situated on the southeast side of the plot. Here, the villa makes an embracing gesture, forming a backdrop for a sculptural artwork near the entrance. The main garden, located to the southwest, is entirely focused on outdoor living. On this side, a continuous canopy provides essential protection from the summer sun, allowing interior and exterior spaces to merge seamlessly. At the rear of the plot lies a serene "viewing garden," offering a wide, diagonal perspective across the full depth of the site. Additionally, a secluded patio garden is nestled in the heart of the villa.
A natural gradation of privacy
The design employs a clear logic in its routing, where the transition from the public street side to the private living areas unfolds gradually. From street level, one rises steadily to the level of the plot, where the villa and the main garden slowly reveal themselves. The path leads from the entrance through the studio to the central living space, ultimately culminating in the private sleeping quarters.
Living spaces oriented toward context
The studio is the first functional space along the main route and serves as an intermediary toward the living areas. This space is oriented toward the main garden and benefits from northern daylight filtered through the patio.
The living area is located in the western volume and is oriented in two directions: the sun-drenched garden to the southwest and the tranquil garden to the north. Centrally positioned within the building is the kitchen, featuring a direct view into the patio garden.
The sleeping wing is located at the end of the route, consisting of two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms. The master bedroom offers access to the entirely private patio—a refined addition to the three primary outdoor spaces. The en-suite bathroom features a large bay window oriented toward the morning sun from the east. Stained-glass panels ensure privacy for the bath while casting vibrant colors into the space as they catch direct sunlight.
A distinctive living experience
The meticulous positioning of the building’s volume and the careful direction of sightlines result in a villa that offers both a sense of security and an active interaction with its surroundings. The site’s conditions have been translated into a functional and extraordinary living experience.
NEXT
