VILLA X

Simplicity, material quality, and a contemporary appearance were key aspects of Villa X. This residence combines solid and void in a geometrically minimalistic composition. Based on the clients’ desires for both openness and privacy, we designed a living space that blends seamlessly with the garden, as well as enclosed rooms that would allow the client to “close the door”. The villa is conceived as a single elongated box. The front and back facades are folded inwards, providing covered exterior space while maintaining the volume’s geometric purity. The result is a seamless transition between public and private space. The ‘solid’ private spaces are clad in anthracite concrete, which is detailed to be massive, subtle and refined at once.

Seen from the outside, the solid-void composition can clearly be read. A long transparent façade encloses the open living space – the void – and two closed concrete blocks at both ends mark the ‘solid’ private spaces, containing the guest and private living quarters. The fully glazed façade opens the living area towards the garden allowing the changing daylight to animate the space. The angled geometry of the front and back facades makes the walls appear accurately scored and folded. Inside the private zones have an intimate atmosphere with rooms that each have their own identity: from the ‘surrealist’ Escher-inspired restroom to the sunny yellow guest bathroom.

Contained between the two dark “solid” ends, the central “void” is a bright and airy living space. A direct view to the garden is offered by a fully glazed façade with frames hidden in the floor and ceiling. Sunlight is reflected by the white ceiling and walls, and by the light resin floor. The space is completely open, with only two freestanding core furniture elements that define the entrance, living, dining and kitchen zones. One is a tactile linear element with curved edges and a smooth, dark-stained bamboo finish, echoing the aged beech tree outside. It integrates building installations, storage space, a TV, and a fireplace. Continuing above the roof, it visually anchors the building. The second core element is rectilinear and T-shaped. It defines the entrance, dining area and kitchen, and features black-stained oak cabinetry. These two wood elements add warmth and an intimate scale to the overall light and open living area. From this protected yet transparent space, the couple can vividly experience the garden as it changes throughout the seasons.