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AHOF FARM : THE RENOVATION OF A LISTED BARN IN THE NETHERLANDS by FLIP WENTINK ARCHITECTEN

by da.team April 23 2026, 07:17 REHAB FLIPWENTINKARCHITECTEN NETHERLANDS WOODHOUSE

The Ahof farm in the Netherlands is a listed barn dating back to 1885, carefully renovated into a sustainable contemporary home by Flip Wentink Architecten. The project focuses on preserving the original character of the building while significantly reducing its environmental impact through the use of natural, traditional materials such as wood, lime plaster, and flax.

A key architectural feature is the striking helical staircase made of pine plywood, developed in collaboration with EeStairs. Its self-supporting structure, without a central column, gives it a light and dynamic presence. The raw finish reflects the barn’s industrial past, while its elegant form bridges historical craftsmanship and modern design. This choice of simple material reinforces the project’s philosophy of purity and understated innovation.

The interior layout has been redesigned to create a calm, functional, and light-filled living environment. A new upper floor discreetly accommodates bedrooms and bathrooms, while maintaining the openness of the original volume. Minimal interventions and the absence of unnecessary technical elements contribute to a serene atmosphere.

Sustainability is central to the renovation: thanks to energy-efficient technologies and renewable sources, the barn is now energy-positive, producing as much energy as it consumes. EeStairs also contributed to this approach by using FSC-certified wood and low-impact finishes.

Finally, the combination of traditional elements, such as thatched roofing, exposed beams, and large arched doors, with modern materials like concrete and steel creates a harmonious blend of past and present, resulting in a warm, minimalist, and contemporary living space.