de Hulst | FARO Architecten

FARO Architects was asked by the WarmThuis foundation to design assisted living groups for psycho-geriatric patients on the former farmyard “de Hulst”. FARO designed three new barnlike structures in which the groups will be housed. The characteristic existing farmhouse and two existing barns were integrated into the plan. WARM THUIS The philosophy/vision of WarmThuis (“warm home”) is based on the understanding that patients with Alzheimer need a safe and recognizable environment. As small scale homelike environments fit this understanding perfectly, a richness in smells, sounds, experience’s and a sense of seasons and time are also an important part of this concept. It’s a perfect solution for the vacant buildings in rural areas in the province North-Holland. Inspired by this vision FARO designed modern homes for six residents in a barnlike style, grouped together around a intimate farmyard. The outside of the accommodation is shaped as a barn, but the inside is the opposite; a clear homely character. The living rooms overlook the farmyard and the surrounding polder. The height of the ceilings in the livings also strengthens the spaciousness feeling of living in a barn. The domestic concept is designed all the way through down to the floor plans. No long hallways and each living has his own front door with an entrance hall, like an everyday house. The volumes have cut-outs for sheltered outdoor spaces and entrances. The buildings are situated in one of the most beautiful polders of the Netherlands, the Beemster, drained in 1612, today placed on the Unesco World Heritage list. The design is based on and refers to archetypical historical barns of this region: black barns with distinct silhouettes and white details on the facades. This way completely contemporary and fully technically equipped buildings are placed in a century old tradition. EFFICIENT WITH ENERGY The barns are designed in a very energy efficient way. The strong insulation of the houses minimalizes the heat consumption, the building envelope has a Rc of 5,0m² K/W. The heat that is needed is primarily covered by a geo thermal heating system making use of a heat pump. The rest of the required energy is provided by the sun using vacuum tube collectors that are integrated in the pergola’s. A central heating system stands by in cases of extreme need of heat. The barns are integrally provide with low temperature floor heating, energy wise a responsible choice but also a very comfortable way of warming for the residents.