Since the current owners acquired the once derelict marina in 1992, the site has been transformed into a modern nature and water sports centre, with the owners’ house being the final addition to the revived property. Standing at the far end of a field, the house is separated from the marina’s public areas by rows of trees and a group of long narrow black buildings that form the rear boundary. Ceremoniously reached by a long pathway, the house at first appears as a monolithic boulder. However, on closer inspection three loosely grouped concrete volumes held together by covered terraces are revealed. A T-shaped, interstitial passageway closed off by slender glazed doors connects the three volumes whilst offering views of the surrounding landscape in multiple directions.

A carefully thought-out configuration discretely separates the private quarters from the common areas while a series of larger and smaller windows and doors offers complementary views and sightlines. What makes this house stand out though is the architects’ focus on materials, colours and textures. Based on an extensive search for the right cement, type and size of pebbles, various grades of sand, and their relative proportions, the richly textured, poured-in-place concrete house is a paradigm of tactile beauty and ascetic elegance.

The concrete floors have been polished to reveal a naturally varying pebble-stone carpet, while the imprint of the pinewood formwork swathes the concrete walls in tactile organic patterns that echo the texture of the untreated timber planks on the roof and ceilings. Internal walls constructed from large ceramic bricks are punctured by slender timber door frames and windowsills and finished with a thin, coarsely applied coat of plaster which together with concrete skirtings and timber ceilings completes the pared-down interiors.

Undoubtedly, the house’s most unique feature is Sabine Marcelis’ epoxy bathroom ensemble which stands out against the muted tones of the interiors with its sculptural design and yellow hue. Combining a washbasin, shower and bath in a single, monolithic volume, the free-standing structure is cleverly rotated to enhance views as well as improve functionality. Featuring a large window and a completely glazed roof, the bathroom truly feels like an outdoor space in line with the open character of the house, while its orientation means that occupants can watch the sunset while taking a bubble bath providing the ultimate opportunity to enjoy the beauty and tranquillity of the abundant natural landscape outside.