The concept for the development “De Coulissen” stems from a focus on the landscape, ecology, and cultural history of the location. The connection to the characteristic coulissen landscape and the sightlines to important historical landmarks, such as Duivenvoorde Castle, have been enhanced and form the basis for the spatial layout. The natural access to the neighborhood and the central water feature are harmoniously integrated into the landscape, strengthening the connection to the surrounding area.
The project has been designed with a focus on creating a nature-friendly living environment, where residents coexist naturally with their surroundings. The houses are positioned in such a way that they enhance the character of the area and allow nature to flow between the plots. The open and inviting layout encourages residents to experience nature both physically and visually.
Andrew van Egmond, together with Blauwhoed Ontwikkeling and Studio BLAD, won the tender for the development of ten homes, inspired by the unique beach ridge landscape of the Duivenvoorde Corridor. The variety in the area is accentuated by the subtle elevation changes, which are linked to the underlying beach ridge. This beach ridge and the transition to the dune valley have been made visible through the types of native plants, enhancing biodiversity and ecology. Together with the central water feature and the large swale, this development can be seen as a living entity, where water retention, ecology, and comfortable living come together. De Coulissen is thus an example of nature-inclusive living.