The estate De Heiligenberg in the Dutch province of Limburg boasts an eventful history. It was first documented in 1381. In the 16th century during Spanish rule, it served as a feudal homestead. Later on, it became private property. The cottage still existing today was built around 1740. In the course of time, however, it fell into disrepair. The Dutch artist Daan Wildschut initiated its restoration in the mid-1950s and installed his studio there. When the current owners found it, it was once more in a decrepit condition. The walls were damp and many of the timber beams had rotted. Studio De Nieuwe Context undertook a thermal rehabilitation of the cottage. They transformed the auxiliary building and former studio of Wildschut's into a charming guest apartment.
The Maastricht-based designers maintained the open character of the interiors. Light and especially colours are the focal points of their intervention spanning the interior spaces - a tongue-in-cheek homage to the previous owner, known for his glass painting art. The striking staircase furniture with its green lacquer finish draws all attention and provides access to a newly installed sleeping gallery. The 37 cm wide stair rail mirrors the stairs stepping upward, encloses storage space and can be used to display or deposit items. When selecting the materials, great emphasis was placed on adhering to ecological standards. Clay and lime render on walls and floors and 18 mm thick FSC-certified plywood panels used for the furniture contribute to a pleasant indoor atmosphere.
