Located within the Hoge Veluwe National Park in the Netherlands lies a unique haven for artists and creative minds amidst the serene embrace of nature: Buitenplaats Koningsweg. Once an old barracks site, it now serves as an artistic incubator where dozens of artists and entrepreneurs live and work. As part of a special initiative by the municipality of Arnhem, 11 whimsical follies have been crafted amidst the woods, offering holiday retreats with the overarching theme of ‘camouflage’ paying homage to the site’s rich history.
These follies offer a distinctive architectural experience, inviting all to immerse themselves in nature’s embrace. Designed by i29 architects & NAMO Architecture, Buitenverblijf Nest seamlessly integrates into its surroundings, offering guests a unique blend of comfort and sustainability. Constructed with eco-conscious materials and featuring sustainable amenities such as solar panels, Nest offers a tranquil and environmentally-responsible retreat amidst the treetops.
Perched atop slender black legs, Nest provides a surprisingly comfortable sanctuary, offering unparalleled views of the surrounding heathlands. Its design not only caters to human visitors but also welcomes a array of wildlife, from birds to insects, fostering a truly inclusive environment within the natural habitat. The staggered layers of its architecture create additional space for nesting boxes, providing shelter for various woodland creatures.
Inside Nest, innovative design meets functional comfort. The living space, located nearly 8 meters above ground level, boasts a well-appointed kitchen and living area, with a terrace offering both morning and evening sun. Clever utilization of space maximizes efficiency, with integrated storage solutions and a compact kitchen seamlessly incorporated into the layout. Ascending the stairs leads to a mezzanine bathroom and a spacious bedroom area, where panoramic views through large round windows and sliding doors offer a breathtaking connection to the outdoors.
Buitenverblijf Nest presents the essence of harmonious coexistence with nature. As an example of sustainable design and architectural ingenuity, it invites guests to retreat from the bustle of modern life and reconnect with the tranquility of the natural world, offering an escape among the treetops.
Client: Noud Paes, Jeroen Dellensen, Jaspar Jansen, Chris Collaris, Christian Hagoort
Design: NAMO Architecture & i29 Architects
Structural engineer: Huib Jol (Geelhoed Engineering BV)
Contractor Hagoort Bouw B.V.
Copyright photo’s: Jeroen Musch
