01 · Challenge
A conservatory in a fortified town with strict regulations
Naarden-Vesting is one of the best-preserved fortified towns in Europe and is on the UNESCO tentative list. Every change to the rear facade of a building in the fortification must be assessed by the listed buildings committee. The owners wanted a conservatory that is comfortable and light-filled, but that leaves the historic appearance of the property unchanged. This required a careful design with traditional materials and restrained detailing.
02 · Our approach
Traditional details, modern comfort
We designed a conservatory with a steel truss structure and laminated insulating glass in slender glazing bars, matching the classicist facade layout of the property in appearance. The colour of the steel profiles was matched to the existing paint finish of the window frames. The foundation is a shallow concrete ring beam with a basement-friendly construction, so that the archaeologically sensitive subsoil of the Vesting is not disturbed.
03 · Result
Passed by the listed building committee first time
The design was approved in a single session by the heritage committee of the municipality of Gooise Meren. The building permit was completed within 8 weeks. The 12 m² conservatory adds a light, spacious garden room that connects seamlessly to the dining room. Thanks to the insulated glazing, the space is pleasant even in winter. The property retains its historic character entirely, even after the renovation.