In the rural landscape between the villages of Makkinga and Donkerbroek in the northern province of Friesland (The Netherlands), the Makkinga house lies secluded by trees. Its orientation and use[...]

© Michel Kievits
In the rural landscape between the villages of Makkinga and Donkerbroek in the northern province of Friesland (The Netherlands), the Makkinga house lies secluded by trees. Its orientation and use of materials create the effect of a dialogue with the surrounding natural landscape.
© Michel Kievits
Now demolished, the old house that originally stood on this site appeared to be oblivious to its exquisite context, offering just a single small window through which to view the magnificent landscape, an almost hidden entrance on the north side, and rooms that were cramped, cold and draughty. The new house is its complete opposite, making full use of the natural qualities offered by its surroundings. To the east, the site faces a road connecting two villages. On this side the entrance to the house gives out on the access road, while the facade, like the one on the north side, has been kept largely closed to ensure a degree of privacy. On the west side, which is the ?living side? of the house, a dialogue has been created with the wide vista offered by the Friesian farmland, and the volume opens up to its full extent. The long veranda on the west side emphasises the openness of the landscape, whereas the south side with its compact terrace brings you in close contact ...