Fact File
Client: Center ParcsArchitecture & Interior design: concrete
Total constructed area: 109 m2
Photo credit: Ton Hurks
Source: V2Com
Drawing inspiration from the original design by Dutch architects Van den Broek and Bakema, Concrete has developed a new and innovative generation of prototype cottages, rethinking the classic Center Parcs bungalow. A prototype constructed at Center Parc Bispinger Heide, Kissingen, Germany, is now available for rental by guests.
The architecture of the cottage is simple and unobtrusive. It seamlessly blends the indoor and outdoor spaces. A floor-to-ceiling glass facade offers uninterrupted views of the surrounding nature, making the outdoors feel like an extension of the living room.
The cottage is comprised of two prefabricated modules, containing all essentials – the kitchen, multiple bedrooms, and bathrooms. The modules are connected by the living room, which allows nature to pour in. It is bathed in natural light through its expansive windows.
Each side of the house offers a different perspective on the beautiful forest outside. In front of the living room, an outdoor private terrace offers guests an intimate space to enjoy the outdoors. Beyond its inspiring views, the cottage offers a truly immersive experience in nature.
The project is designed around the principle of modular pre-fabrication, with a hybrid of 2D elements and 3D modules created off-site and quickly assembled in the scenic natural setting. The cottage is easy to install on site, allowing it to be ready for guests in less than two weeks.
The cottages are arranged in a staggered layout, ensuring privacy by shielding views between neighbouring structures. The layout also prevents terraces from intruding upon each other, preserving the overall a sense of serenity.
The cottage has been carefully designed with a strong emphasis on sustainability and minimal energy consumption. It features high-quality insulation, which minimizes heat loss and maximizes energy efficiency. Moreover, only materials of organic origin are used, not only reducing the ecological footprint, but also contributing to a healthier indoor environment. The consistent use of wood on both the exterior and interior blurs the distinction between inside and outside, strengthening the connection to nature. The stone flooring, cross-laminated timber (CLT) ceiling, and spruce wood wall cladding establish a timeless neutral colour palette. The use of durable, high-quality materials minimizes the need for frequent replacement and maintenance.
In terms of energy supply, the cottage operates entirely on electricity, utilizing photovoltaic cells on the roof, and a heat pump for heating and cooling. Combined, all these features contribute to an eco-friendly and sustainable stay, with preservation of the environment at its core.
