Bezuiden Sluis

In the floodplains of the Afgedamde Maas near Woudrichem, a water-bound industrial estate was developed after the dissolution of the Kringenwet in the late 1960s. This area, located outside the dikes, lies within the protective perimeter of the Woudrichem Fortress and has thus remained undeveloped. Once a part of the New Dutch Water Line, the area is within walking distance of the Woudrichem fortress and an important inundation sluice.

We are introducing three "strands," perpendicular to the dike, each featuring different types of housing: dike houses, amphibious houses, and floating houses.

Situated at the highest point, along the Hoge Maasdijk, will be the dike houses. These homes will be securely positioned at a safe height, ensuring that the public spaces between them remain dry at all times. Below these houses, there will be parking garages capable of accommodating the vehicles of all residents within the neighborhood.

One level lower, nestled between the dike houses and the river, the amphibious houses will be situated. During periods of low water levels, these houses will stand on solid ground, but as water levels rise, they will float along guided posts. This phenomenon occurs more frequently for houses located closest to the water and less frequently for those farther away. Additionally, the outdoor areas surrounding these houses may occasionally experience flooding. Residents may find themselves enjoying either green surroundings or waterfront views depending on the water levels. These homes will be connected to the parking garage via floating boardwalks and to a pedestrian path leading to the fortress.

Floating houses will be positioned directly on the river. The height of these houses relative to the dike and other housing types will be constantly changing. Residents of these homes will enjoy stunning views of the water and will have the option to dock their own boats adjacent to their residences.

Together, these three types of houses will create a showcase of climate-adaptive residences: high and dry dike houses, amphibious houses that sometimes float, and always-floating houses. This innovative approach will result in a unique and dynamic living environment while also demonstrating effective adaptation strategies for a changing climate in the Netherlands.

Between the strands of housing, green wedges will be created to offer views of the Maas from the Hoge Maasdijk. These green spaces will be publicly accessible. The terraces of the houses will border these wedges, forming an integral architectural component of the homes and ensuring a clear transition between private and public areas.

Due to the significant differences in water levels, the vegetation in these outdoor spaces will adapt accordingly. The area between the amphibious houses will consist of reeds and other water-loving plants, with small beaches forming naturally. The green wedges will be interconnected by a paved pathway between the dike houses and the amphibious houses, as well as a lower-level boardwalk between the amphibious houses and the floating houses.

The plan includes 39 dike houses, 24 amphibious houses, and 15 floating houses, totaling 78 residences. The majority of these homes will be detached (or floating), while some will be attached. The size and scale of the buildings align well with the surrounding architecture in and around Woudrichem.

The houses will primarily be constructed using natural materials: a wooden structural framework, biobased insulation, and facades made of wooden panels. This approach also resonates with historical guidelines promoting wooden construction within the "schootsvelden". The specific type of wood used for the facade and/or the method of preservation (modification) will vary, creating a lively appearance.

The windows and facades will be generously sized and, where possible, extend to the full height of the floors. Wooden frames will be meticulously detailed to create abstract, sculptural volumes. The roofs will have a slight slant and will be oriented towards the sun (E-W axis). Photovoltaic panels will be installed on these roofs to meet the homes' electricity needs. Heat and cold is extracted from the river or groundwater using heat exchangers. Additionally, the houses will be equipped with nesting facilities for birds and other animals.