LIGHTHOUSE
BYTR Architects
ARCHITECT
BYTR Architects
LOCATION
Utrecht, The Netherlands
A corner house on one of the prettiest locations along the canal is provided with a new living layer in a metal rooftop extension.
A glass wall is wrapped with a light, perforated aluminum skin. Windows occasionally pinch through this layer or are covered by it, providing various degrees of openness and closeness.
By putting the perforated aluminum panels upside down, looks into the building are prevented.
A interesting play of light emerges: at night, the metal is lit from the back while in the day, the perforations provide diffuse daylight into the interior.
The rooftop terrace, acting as a herb garden, provides a good view over the canal. Because this terrace is sunk into the ceiling of the kitchen, the relation of the adjacent living-kitchen and terrace is strengthened. Terrace and kitchen come within reach, despite of the difference in level.
The stairwell void is occupied by an impressive vertical book closet. The bookshelves transform into an easy, transparent stairs, wide enough to be used as a reading bench.
