REBEL HOUSE

In Almere, the Netherlands, parcels of land were made available for people to build their own homes. This parcel is officially called ‘Ik bouw in mijn tuin’ (I build in my garden’) and the available space measured 9m by 8m, with a permitted height of just 3.7m. Other tight parameters included a very limited budget, proximity to the site boundaries and low maintenance. The practice worked hard to fulfil the client’s wish for a distinctive and tailor made house with a butterfly roof. The possibilities of a detached house were maximised with views and light on all sides. Interesting features include indentations on the east and west façades, continuing the one in the roof, enabling an opening to the east and an entrance awning on the west side. The exterior is clad with corrugated aluminium sheeting. This might not be the obvious material for a residential project, but has proven to be cost effective and robust. But while the exterior is functional, the open plan interior is warm and timbered. A detached interior box houses the bathroom, cloakroom cupboard, cabinets, wardrobe and even a guest bed, with a sliding door to separate the living and sleeping areas. In summertime hidden double doors can be opened to the garden. The triangular, aluminium shed in the back garden creates more intimacy at this end of the house.