Self-build at former airfield

The first stop was a former airfield in Ypenburg where part of the land had been sold as self-build plots. It was a great example of how simple design rules and high-quality landscaping can produce a coherent yet diverse place.

Use of timber

The design rules for this self-build site, de Gele Lis, were the same for each individual plot. Apart from some building plot alignments, the type of house or use of materials was up to the self-builder to design and decide. However, there was one rule for all the buildings; each house had to include 50% of timber cladding but the type of timber and finish was up to the owner. And it worked. Next to a green landscape and water, the timber finishes complement the characteristics of the surroundings.

Hedges and trees

The plots at de Gele Lis accommodate generous house sizes and small private front gardens, the street is just a few steps from each front door. It was very important that the small space between the resident's land and the public space was well designed and it's like a courtyard with trees and a side walk. There was one simple rule for residents; they could plant hedges on the edges of their front gardens but there are no fences. The overall effect is very pleasing.

Natural boundaries

Just like the front gardens, the back gardens were not that deep either but are next to water and a natural landscape which provides a feeling of openess and a lovely view. The self-builders adapted their house designs to the situation and feel very priviledged to live so close to nature. It's a wonderful asset, particularly as the location is so close to the cities of The Hague and Delft.

Orchard Farm Kent Ltd
Office 43
Regus Building 2
Guildford Business Park Road
Guildford
Surrey GU2 8XG

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