The Rough House is a minimal residence located in Limburg, The Netherlands, designed by Niels Maier. The project is a renovation of a half timbered house, situated in the south of the Netherlands. The renovation sought to maintain much of the original structure, while complementing the existing space with natural materials and artisan objects.

Inspired by the original home’s artisanal and crafted elements, The Rough House is an expression of the maker and the process of making, celebrated through the raw and rustic. Niels Maier approaches the recent revitalisation from a place of historical sensitivity anchored in considered minimalism and conjures a home that beautifully captures its past.

Nestled into the countryside in the south of the Netherlands in Limburg, the house sees a bringing together of its well-storied past, with a relevant and considered present. The interior interventions focus on the experience of the space and the creation of an honest and inviting series of spaces that intertwine with the existing exterior and beautiful patina shown on the timber structural elements.

Warmth and texture are key drivers for each of the spaces, layering in ceramic, metal, timber and plaster elements that all have their own unique sense of movement and tactility, further animating the home.Although detailed and nuanced, the finishes, select furniture and artwork are all brought together with clarity and precision that feels like they have been there for the age of the original home; a feat in itself.

To have endured the time and many custodians in its life, The Rough House is founded on resilience above all else and its robustness is testament to its survival.