De Oostvaarders

Nature-education-centre 'The Oostvaarders' is situated in a unique nature reserve in Europe. The building is constructed at a junction of various landscapes with the different characters of land, water, forest and reed fields. The Oostvaarders presents itself in two different shapes. From the parking the shape is inviting, like a vertical beacon rising from the plain. On the contrary the shape from the lakeside is horizontal, connecting with the extensive dyke and water. On the first floor the panorama-room gives a great view over the lake. The entrance of the building is situated at the foot of the dyke. From the entrance the visitor climbs the stairs to the crow’s nest: an exterior space to view the environment. In order to minimize a disruption in the surrounding natural environment, the building time was reduced to a minimum. Therefore, the building is constructed in prefab, massive, wooden walls and floors.