Ahof Farm | Flip Wentink Architecten

Today, upon entering the Ahof barn, the first impression is defined by a spiral staircase in pine plywood, created through a collaboration between the interior architect and EeStairs. Its raw surface evokes industrial use while echoing the inherent simplicity of the barn. The staircase’s refined form and natural materials reconcile historical sensibilities with forward-looking approaches. Curved or spiral staircases in marble, glass, or more precious timbers are traditionally associated with more luxurious interiors. This plywood interpretation reinforces the ethos of purity and restraint that is so intrinsic to the Ahof project, while seeking the extraordinary through its bold design.

From a design perspective, two features of the staircase stand out. The first is its self-supporting helical appearance: no central support column interrupts the dynamic sweep that invites visitors upward to the first floor. The second is the remarkable precision of the balustrade, the underside of the treads, and the crisp lines of the plywood edges. The object is elevated by the craftsmanship of its maker.

Traditional materials for contemporary living

Working closely with the client, the architects succeeded in transforming the original spirit of the historic building into a distinctive contemporary residence. The ambition was to rely on natural building materials, notably lime plaster and flax, used in the construction of the walls. The absence of modern additions or unnecessary fixtures on the interior surfaces creates a profound sense of calm and clarity.

The introduction of a first floor allowed bathrooms and additional bedrooms to be discreetly integrated into the layout. Within this restrained architectural language, the staircase stands as the sole element that introduces 21st-century craftsmanship into the space.

A positive-energy barn

The renovation of the barn was guided by the ambition to create a zero-consumption home. Through the use of highly energy-efficient technologies and renewable energy sources, the amount of energy produced on site now matches the building’s consumption.

The materials employed remain traditional, carefully preserving the authentic character of the historic structure.

The helical EeStairs plays center stage
The interior architect worked alongside the client and architect to convey the strength of the original structure. The brief was to use natural building materials working with lime plaster and flax in the wall build up. Avoiding unnecessary fixtures or fittings on the interior walls respects the structure and bring a felling of stillness. The addition of a new first floor meant that a bathroom and bedroom were discreetly installed and a modern staircase was designed to bring 21st century craftsmanship into the space.

Ensuring the honesty of materials extends to this dramatic pine ply staircase; a collaboration between the interior architect and EeStairs. It is an audacious and innovative helical design and the first of its kind to be engineered and fabricated by EeStairs. The raw ply wood refer to the industrial use and has a humility and warmth that suits the barn, its history and future. Curved or helical stairs are usually seen clad in luxury finishes like marble, plaster or more noble woods like oak, this ply version reinforces the ethos of purity and simplicity that is so inherent in the Ahof project.

A few steps—and a dialogue of styles bridging centuries

Today, large arched glazed doors fitted with traditional shutters define both ends of the building, allowing light to flow generously through the space. Handcrafted thatch, the steep gabled roof, and exposed structural beams preserve the building’s sober, functional character, while underscoring its new life as a modern home.

Through the steel kitchen island and the polished concrete floor, interior architect Julia van Beuningen introduces a subtle industrial note. Meanwhile, the pine used for the staircase, balustrade, and first-floor partitions brings brightness to the interior, creating an atmosphere that is both welcoming and warm.

Interior Architect: Julia van Beuningen

Staircase Design and Fabrication: EeStairs