With the idea of increasing house demand, the client, gave us the assignment to design a free-standing dwelling which could be built under 3 months. With a modular approach together with a previous designed and engineered concrete sandwich panel by Pachy, we came to a design which is fast to build without losing aesthetics over it. By using precast and prefabricated elements we can ensemble this design within a view week and minimize the (costly) time on site. When the structure is placed the design will be wind free and watertight and ready for any trade to work in a from the elements enclosed environment.

The design houses 4 inner courtyards, which can be planted with seasonal trees to give the four seasons a display. Besides the display function, the inner courtyards give lots of natural light in the house. The ceilings are higher near the inner courtyards to gather heat and naturally ventilate the heat out. For the organisation of the house, the inner courtyards ‘squares’ are also gathering points for different rooms which provides clarity within the design.

Sensory is important within designs. Within this design different height in ceilings provide different sounds (hearing). Lots of light and big glass surfaces provide views (vision). Integrating nature gives fresh air and natural smells (smell). Different materials as concrete, wood, fabrics, glass, etc. give different textures to feel (touch). And a central kitchen with a large dining table overlooking the whole design gives the opportunity to taste (taste).