Farm Berwout

In Egmond-Binnen, in the middle of the PWN dune area, a dune farm was built around 1870. After the groundwater level continued to drop as a result of water extraction, profitable farming became impossible and a new purpose for the farm had to be found. The attached large wagon shed was halved and converted into a holiday home around 1950. About six years ago PWN decided to sell the buildings. The new owner has been looking for a smart solution to live in the farm sustainably while respecting the (national) monumental values. To this end, research was first carried out and an architect was involved. The plan was to restore the mostly authentic stolp and to fully sustainably rebuild the attached barn (without any significant monumental value) in its original volume. The result is a comfortable energy-neutral "winter home" in the new building and a "summer residence" in the old bell jar. This split into a summer and winter home offers a unique solution that removes the dilemma of choosing between sustainability, fire safety or preservation of authenticity. The plans are ready and will be submitted shortly. Photos: Kenneth Stamp