Amsterdam-based design studio Framework Architects and Studio Prototype have designed the Water Villa project. Completed in 2012, the contemporary waterfront property is located in Gabriël Metsustraat, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

According to the architects: “The relationship between water and the house is central to the design. There is a subtle playfulness between open and closed. The vertically designed pattern, an abstract allusion to the water, provides not only optimal privacy but also a subtle play of light inside the residence itself. The inhabitants are able to regulate their privacy by, for example, an integrated folding window that can be opened and closed by remote control. The contemporary Dutch property is spacious with three levels, one of which is below the water, while living and work areas are located above the water.

“The three levels are spaciously connected by an inner patio, which not only centrally organises the plan of the contemporary Amsterdam housebut creates sufficient light in the lower level as well. Also, the steel staircase that has such distinctive significance for the character of the house, is located in the patio. Here again, the vertical pattern of the staircase, consisting of a steel stripe pattern, provides a dynamic display of light and direction.”