In this natural setting, a horizontal play of lines comes into its own
In the historic Annahaeghe park in Venray stands this villa, whose façade takes its character from Joseph Bricks linear facing bricks.
The area is home to a remarkable variety of flora and fauna and special ecological features of great historical value. Besides characteristic, listed greenery, the setting is graced by a large number of stately, distinctive buildings from various periods, from the 1930s to the end of the last century.
More than a hundred years later, the park is being renovated, making room for a number of new homes. Our client Ronald Swinkels of Swkls Architects in Eindhoven delivered this striking project for the new owner.
Since 2010, Swkls Architects has been known for contemporary architecture with a distinctive design signature, characterised by a minimalist architectural language. This language is driven by the search for calm and essence, without becoming clinical.
In this design, it was very important not to lose sight of the special foundations of the Annapark. For every new home in Annahaeghe, preserving the character of the park comes first. The owner's wish: a modern house for a large family, with a full basement, two floors above and a flat roof.
In short: a search between the contrasts of contemporary architecture and the distinct identity of the park.
Sculptural, yet in subtle harmony with its surroundings
Compared with its surroundings, where the older houses have front façades with curved brickwork, this house is straight and horizontal. The design has a sculptural character. Yet the link with the natural setting and its distinct history is made through a tectonic façade.
"In this natural setting, a horizontal play of lines truly comes into its own. The Franklin has a pleasant texture and limited colour nuances. You can almost see the clay. That gives the brick a crafted, earthy character, so the façade connects seamlessly with the landscape. Together with the pointing, the linear facing brick gives the façade a special layering. The recessed joints emphasise the horizontal lines even more. The perpends were left out, which requires a brick that is straight enough. That is the case with Joseph Bricks. There is also a fine contrast with the aluminium doors and window frames.
The historic houses in the area often have finer bricks and slightly thinner joints. A smooth rendered façade, or an extruded facing brick for example, would not fit here. The crafted linear facing brick is much more in keeping, especially combined with the chosen pointing.
Together with the client, I went to a brick merchant to choose a brick that suited the design. The choice was quickly made. We were convinced straight away: this brick stands apart. It was chosen for aesthetic reasons. The fact that it is produced ecologically is a welcome bonus."