House H by Wiel Arets Architects in Maastricht, Netherlands

Project: House H
Architects: Wiel Arets Architects
Location: Maastricht, Netherlands
Photos by: João Morgado

House H by Wiel Arets Architects

The architectural firm Wiel Arets Architects developed House H in Maastricht, Netherlands. This stunning modern house was created for a couple — a dancer and actor, as well as landscape architects. The exterior of the house is impeccable, with a glass cladding reflecting the green surroundings.

House H was designed for a couple and located in the green part of Maastricht. The clients are a dancer and actor, as well as landscape architects. Behind the building lies a formal garden that is sometimes open to the public.

The interior space of the house represents one large loft-like level with a central mezzanine area. Two small independent volumes — the entrance and bathroom — adjoin the main structure. Balconies define the position and form of the house, each with its unique character.

The absence of load-bearing walls means that only a few rectangular columns support the house slabs, arranged to minimize impact. All other walls — internal or external — are made of glass. The staircase in the house is a separate object within this loft space. The desired level of privacy, as preferred by the owners, can be regulated using a series of curtains that softly divide internal zones.

The combination of transparent and opaque glass, as well as fixed and movable parts of the façade, creates numerous possible responses to seasonal changes and reduced light. The spaces inside the house are enriched by a layered configuration, material blend, and differences in usage.

–Wiel Arets Architects