Cabral Arquitetos: A Casa Celeiro, Eelde

In Eelde, The Netherlands, there’s a house that captures the essence of ancient forms. A domestic architecture follows the shape and volume associated to a different kind of program: a barn! Despite the perceptible similarities with a traditional Dutch barn, this two-story building is all about modern details and ambiance. Let’s explore this wonderful countryside home a bit more…

A sloping metallic roof seems to float over a wooden deck pavement that surrounds the entire perimeter of this 320 sq. m. house. The access to this brilliant architectonic solution is made through a concrete path that guides our steps into an elevated platform. In fact, the so called similarity between the house and a typical barn becomes very clear from the outside: large barn-style doors punctuate the entire facade opening views to the countryside.

All the ground floor spaces (entrance hall, kitchen, bathroom, living and dining room) benefit from a remarkable facade cladding in horizontal wooden blinds that allows an efficient air circulation through a transitory covered space before entering the house.
The upper floor takes advantage of the geometry of the pitched roof creating voids and mezzanine areas above the social spaces. Four bedrooms and a bathroom complete the private zones of this stylish barn house.

But what really catches our attention is the constructive process behind this contemporary approach to a traditional form: a steel framework assumes the “skeleton” of the building while a wooden cladding works as the “skin”. Interior atmospheres follow the same organic principles: wood for ceilings and pavements. The countryside has now a new friend… a modern piece of architecture that quietly observes the change of seasons, offering its inhabitants and visitors a splendid place to enjoy the views!