Fritz-Höger-Preis 2011 für Backstein-Architektur

This rustic new district of Nieuwkoop is characterized by a modest silhouette that does not impose itself when viewed from the open landscape of the ‘green heart’ of Holland. In the plan, the volumes and façades of the semi- detached homes are carefully proportioned to form a coherent ensemble. The usage of large windows with their recess to the back gives the dwellings a characteristic expression, while also allowing plenty of light and splendid views of the surrounding peat meadows. Similar plinths, property boundaries and a consistent palette of materials defines the individual dwellings coherence and defines the relations between the individual house to the village cluster.

The houses are designed to achieve the highest energy-efficiency, with an EPC (energy performance certificate) rating from 0,00 to 0,56. The plan includes two ‘Zero Energy’ homes, which completely provide their own energy needs. These homes are not different from the other dwellings in terms of design and although they have large windows they are ‘Zero Energy’ houses. These high sustainable qualities are achieved by the usage of:
• Good thermal envelope with high insulation values.
• Solar panels on the roof.
• Heat recovery from air balanced ventilation system and geothermal well.
• Lots of natural light.

Social sustainability is also an important motive in this plan. The well-proportioned house, their large windows and the relation to the natural surroundings invites people to have a healthy and sustainable way of living.
A concrete relief of the ‘Perpetuum Mobile’ is the sole indication that the ‘Zero Energy’ homes are special houses. -