Veldschuur
The Barn
and its design
The Barn on the Ahof dates back to 1885, and is a classic Dutch design with a deep thatched roof, partial dark wood cladding and red brickwork. Magnificent large arched glazed doorways with traditional stable door shutters frame each end of the building allowing light to pour through.
The interior architect worked alongside the client and architect to convey the strength already present in the original structure. Using natural building materials like lime plaster and flax for insulation in the wall build-up, both respect the structure as well as bringing a feeling of stillness in the building. The addition of a new first floor meant that bathrooms and bedrooms are discreetly situated in the pitched roof, and a contemporary staircase was designed to bring 21st century craftsmanship into the space.
Two double rooms (one en-suite)
One twin room
Two bathrooms
Large open plan living space
Bespoke kitchen
Outdoor terrace and garden flowing into a field
The thatching, rough-hewn beams and simple floor keep the honesty of the building’s purpose whilst elevating its use as a modern home. Crucial contemporary elements with a warm industrial feel were added: a central steel kitchen island and a powerful energy-efficient wood-burning stove allow for luxurious functionality and enable endless social gatherings.
Ensuring the purity of materials extends in the modern fittings, we designed a dramatic pine ply staircase; a collaboration between the interior architect and a renowned local stair company. The raw plywood refer to utilitarian use of the barn yet express a humility and warmth Curved or helical stairs are usually seen clad in luxury finishes like marble, plaster or more noble woods like oak, this ply version reinforces the ethos of purity and simplicity that is so inherent in the Ahof heritage.
The Veldschuur is currently occupied, however enquiries for future stays are welcome.