A striking new residential project has emerged on the shores of a Dutch lake, where contemporary architecture meets traditional Frisian culture in a harmonious blend of design and landscape. The Marhûs Lakehouse, designed by Lichtstad Architecten, represents a thoughtful approach to contextual architecture that honors both its natural setting and cultural heritage.
Completed in 2025, the 450-square-meter residence takes its name from the Frisian language, where "Mar" means lake and "hûs" signifies dwelling or house. This linguistic connection reflects the project's deep integration with its cultural and geographical context in Boornzwaag, The Netherlands. The design team, led by Rob van Vugt with contributions from Maron Vondeling, Remon Alberts, and Renee van Kemenade, created a structure that serves as both a modern home and a celebration of regional identity.
The architectural concept centers on creating a continuous dialogue between the built environment and the surrounding landscape. Positioned strategically on the edge of a lake, the residence is framed by two small harbors, a mature garden with established trees, reed-fringed quays, and an extended jetty that reaches into the water. This careful positioning allows the home to capture expansive panoramic views across the water while maintaining a respectful relationship with the natural ecosystem.
The design philosophy embraces a dual personality that responds to different aspects of its context. When approached from the street side, Marhûs presents a modest and understated profile that harmonizes with the fine-grained character of the village. This restrained facade ensures the residence integrates seamlessly with the existing community fabric without overwhelming its neighbors. However, the lake-facing elevation tells a different story, asserting itself with confident architectural gestures that respond to the vast openness characteristic of the Frisian landscape.
The project involved a comprehensive team of specialists, including landscape architecture by Sylvia Karres, interior design by Marjan Bulder, and project management by Gurbe van der Schaaf. Engineering consultancy was provided by multiple firms: Bekkema Installatietechniek handled mechanical systems, IN2energie managed energy services, and Ingenieursbureau Meijer & Joustra took care of structural engineering. The construction was completed by De Jong & de Wal as the general contractor.
Material choices for the project emphasize sustainability and connection to nature, with wood and glass playing prominent roles in the architectural expression. These materials were selected not only for their aesthetic qualities but also for their ability to create transparent connections between interior and exterior spaces. The use of natural materials reinforces the project's commitment to environmental sensitivity while providing warmth and texture that complements the lakeside setting.
The Marhûs Lakehouse represents more than just a residential project; it embodies a broader architectural philosophy that values craftsmanship, hospitality, and reverence for nature. By anchoring itself both literally and figuratively in its context, the design creates a meaningful dialogue between contemporary living and traditional values, demonstrating how modern architecture can enhance rather than compete with its natural and cultural surroundings.
