Simple, yet extraordinary: The concept behind Villa Kogelhof is one of contrasts. Yet upon a second look, it’s clear that both the building and the landscape follow a common logic.

Striking architecture as a mirror of the landscape

Dutch architect Paul de Ruiter designed a modern residential building in the Dutch town of Kamperland, naming it Villa Kogelhof.

Despite its transparent facade, plenty of surprises lurk within. Consisting of two structures set at right angles to one another, it has two levels connected by a concrete core. Half of the ground floor sinks into a slope, and the upper part of the building cuts through the barren grasslands of the former farmland. This striking construction reflects the character of the extensive surroundings, which are broken up by canals and connected by dams and bridges.

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Life, with a view: Architecture that emphasises its surroundings

Residents enter the house through the glass entrance into a space which has a total of 715 square metres of living space. Among other things, the basement accommodates a garage with space for six cars and a tractor. There is also a bathroom, storage space and a spacious office with a view of an artificially created water basin.

A staircase leads to the central living rooms, which rise 3.5 metres above the ground. In the floating cuboid, large glass fronts on all four sides offer a panoramic view of the landscape. The room layout is as fluid as the boundaries between indoor and out: Kitchen, bathroom, bedroom and a multi-purpose room are separated only by glass walls.

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Intelligent tech makes for an energy efficient home

The interior design is as clear and reduced as the architecture. Between purist furniture and uniformly white walls, the Gira E2 switch design line blends harmoniously into the design. This angular design original is the central control element of intelligent home technology. Thanks to uniform dimensions of 55 x 55 millimetres, inserts with different functions from the Gira System 55 can be integrated into the switch frame.

The owners attached importance not only to modern living comfort, but to energy efficiency. Thanks to a special air conditioning unit with an air heat exchanger, the room has a pleasant temperature at all times and contributes to the overall sustainable concept that the villa stands for. A connected wind power plant and photovoltaic modules on a 280 square metre roof provide enough energy to supply the building services with electricity. Right in the middle of this farmland, an energy-efficient home has been created which brings technology and nature together.

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A harmonious contrast set by the smart villa

With extraordinary design and a sophisticated energy concept, it’s no wonder that Villa Kogelhof has received seven international awards since its completion in 2013.

This striking residential building shows that opposites do not have to be contradictions thanks to modern technology and sustainable architecture.

Looking for more inspiration? Gira.com offers a wide range of products for equipping your smart home, as well as tips & advice on the latest and most exciting interior trends and styles.

What do you think of Villa Kogelhof? Let us know in the comments!

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