The Fascinating Story of the Experimental Bolwoningen Houses

🏠The Bolwoningen houses were built in 1984 as part of an experimental architecture project funded by the Dutch government's Ministry for Public Housing and Spatial Planning.

🌐The designer, artist Dries Kreijkamp, believed that humans were not meant to live in a box and wanted to create a more unconventional and unique housing experience.

🏡The Bolwoningen houses are made from glass fiber reinforced concrete and feature 10 centimeters of rockwool insulation, making them warm and energy-efficient.

🔧Maintenance of the Bolwoningen houses can be challenging, as the houses require regular cleaning and ongoing repairs to address issues such as leaking windows.

🌳The Bolwoningen houses were granted monumental status, providing them with some level of protection, although they can still face challenges at the governmental level.

Who funded the construction of the Bolwoningen houses?

—The Bolwoningen houses were funded by the Dutch government's Ministry for Public Housing and Spatial Planning as part of an experimental architecture project.

What materials are the Bolwoningen houses made from?

—The Bolwoningen houses are made from glass fiber reinforced concrete, with 10 centimeters of rockwool insulation between the outer and inner hulls.

Are the Bolwoningen houses energy-efficient?

—Yes, thanks to the materials used and the insulation, the Bolwoningen houses are energy-efficient and can maintain a comfortable temperature inside.

What maintenance challenges do the Bolwoningen houses face?

—The Bolwoningen houses require regular cleaning and ongoing maintenance to address issues such as leaking windows. Some residents also face the challenge of limited space for their belongings.

Do the Bolwoningen houses have any historical significance?

—Yes, the Bolwoningen houses were granted monumental status, providing them with some level of protection. However, their status at the governmental level is still uncertain.

00:00After World War II, the Netherlands needed to build new houses to accommodate the post-war baby boom.

01:04In 1984, the Bolwoningen houses were built as part of an experimental architecture project funded by the Dutch government.

01:27The Bolwoningen houses, also known as sphere houses, are located in Den Bosch in the south of the Netherlands.

02:10The houses consist of three floors: the first floor for entering the house, the second floor for sleeping, and the upper floor for the living room and kitchen.

02:29The Bolwoningen houses were made from glass fiber reinforced concrete and have 10 centimeters of insulation between the outer and inner hulls.

03:07Despite their unconventional design, the Bolwoningen houses are still lived in and used as social housing.

03:26The houses require regular maintenance, including cleaning and repairs for issues like leaking windows.

03:35The Bolwoningen houses have been granted monumental status, but their long-term future is uncertain at the governmental level.