This unique vacation retreat in the Netherlands draws inspiration from the angular surfaces and geometric form of the iconic US F-117 Nighthawk stealth attack aircraft. The abode is constructed on a former secret Nazi WWII military base, and the name is inspired by the property’s post-war history. Dubbed ‘Stay Under the Radar’ the structure is designed by Sander van Schaik with Robert-Jan de Kort. It is tucked away on the country estate of Buitenplaats Koningsweg, a site that was built as a military airfield, and concealed as farm buildings.

Designer: Sander van Schaik & Robert-Jan de Kort

“After the war, a number of buildings were built on the site. One of them is the Radar Tower,” said Schaik. “The modest building was used as a training building for the Radio Radar School. On the roof stood an impressive radar installation – an enormous steel construction – with the characteristic antenna as the highest point.”

Stay Under the Radar is constructed close to the Tower on an open field. It is largely influenced by the aforementioned iconic jet aircraft, and it features a matte black exterior.  “The black angular house looks like a mysterious figure. With its folded-down grills, the house looks as if it has just landed on the forest floor,” Schaik concluded.

The dwelling occupies 48 sq m and is spanned over three floors. It isn’t small enough to be a tiny home, but it is quite compact. It is a lightweight building, made using steel, and a wooden facade covered with rubber. The structure is anchored using screw piles, which is a less harmful technique than concrete foundations. It has been positioned near some trees, which offer shade and shelter. The ground floor of Stay Under the Radar is mostly occupied by the living area which includes seating and a dining table. A kitchen is also integrated into the space. Other sections of the retreat include a bathroom with a shower, sink, and a separate toilet. The second story houses a bedroom with two single beds, while the third story accommodates a double bed and glass ceiling.

Since it features a black rubber facade, the building can heat up quite quickly when exposed to sunlight. To deal with this dilemma, openings, and grated floor parts were incorporated to support unobstructed airflow, allowing for sufficient ventilation. Stay Under the Radar recently won the Heuvelink Prize for best new construction project in Arnhem.

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