Office by Nature

A seamless integration of architecture and landscape, inspired by the traditional plaggenhut.

Set against the backdrop of the Blaricum heathland, the Tafelberg office embodies a profound connection between architecture and its natural surroundings. The design draws inspiration from the plaggenhut, a historical dwelling known for its earthen walls and sod-covered roof, blending almost invisibly into the landscape. This concept informs the building's simplicity, restraint, and symbiotic relationship with the ground.

Occupying a prominent position on a protected glacial landscape, the office eschews traditional architectural dominance in favor of a design that extends the terrain. A heather-covered roof, planted with native species, allows the landscape to continue uninterrupted over the structure. The building remains largely concealed, revealed only through strategic openings and framed vistas.

The principle of 'form follows nature' guides the architectural response to the site's topography, vegetation, and light. A narrow band of glazing introduces daylight while maintaining the visual continuity of the planted roof. Clad in poplar bark, the exterior evokes a geological texture, reinforcing the building's tactile presence.

Inside, the atmosphere shifts to warmth and precision, with laminated timber columns and Red Grandis wood defining the interior. Spaces flow organically, with curved walls and long sightlines enhancing connectivity. Technical systems are seamlessly integrated, ensuring a continuous architectural language.

Design Highlights

• Heather-covered roof with native species

• Poplar bark cladding for geological texture

• Laminated timber and Red Grandis wood interiors

• Integrated technical systems within wooden surfaces

• Strategic openings for expansive views

Key Facts

The Tafelberg office stands as a testament to contemporary architecture's ability to harmonize with its environment, creating a workspace where architecture and nature are inseparable.