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This water villa was designed by FRAMEWORK Architecten & Studio PROTOTYPE for a waterfront location near the Olympic Stadium in Amsterdam.

  • project

    Watervilla

  • location

    Amsterdam

  • client

    Private

  • size

    250 m²

  • period

    2011 – 2012

  • status

    build

  • design

    PROTOTYPE

  • project architect

    Jeroen Steenvoorden in collaboration with Jeroen Spee

  • photos

    Jeroen Musch

  • special feature

    Nomination Daylight Award 2012

An abstract reference
to water


The relationship between the water and the house is central to the design. There is a subtle interplay between openness and closure. The vertically designed pattern, an abstract reference to the water, not only offers optimal privacy but also allows for a delicate play of light within the residence. The inhabitants can regulate their privacy, for example, through an integrated folding window that can be remotely opened and closed.

The house is spacious, with three levels, one of which is below the water, while the living and work areas are located above the water. The three levels are connected by an inner patio, which not only centrally organizes the house’s layout but also provides sufficient light to the lower level. Additionally, the steel staircase, which holds distinctive significance for the character of the house, is located in the patio. Once again, the vertical pattern of the staircase, consisting of steel stripes, creates a dynamic display of light and direction.