Case study

Internal Walk On Rooflight Installed In Unique Accommodation

A modern house with a sleek, angular design is elevated above the ground, supported by a sloped terrain. Large windows reflect the cloudy sky and surrounding greenery, while sunlight breaks through the clouds, casting a warm glow on the scene.
Overview

A Glazing Vision Internal Walk On Rooflight was installed at the iconic Balancing Barn in Suffolk, a unique contemporary holiday home designed by Dutch architectural practice MVRDV.

Details

Status

Complete

Architect

MVRDV

Located near the Suffolk Coast in Dunwich Heath, Balancing Barn is a 30-metre-long residence half-balances over the landscape, making it a truly unique place to stay. Its reflective steel-clad exterior and extensive use of glass create a strong connection between the building, surrounding countryside and sky.

A modern, reflective house is elevated on a stone base, set against a clear blue sky and surrounded by lush greenery. The structure has a sharp, angular roof and a large window on one side, blending contemporary design with nature.

The Design

The design plans for Balancing Barn placed a strong emphasis on creating unexpected visual connections between the interior and the landscape beyond. Large areas of glazing, including windows incorporated into the floor, roof and walls, allow natural light and views to penetrate deep into the building.

As part of this approach, an Internal Walk On Rooflight was specified to provide a robust glazed surface within the building while maintaining the clean, contemporary aesthetic of the interior.

The rooflight needed to perform as both an architectural feature and a functional walking surface.

A modern living room with a green sofa, colorful geometric rug, and glass floor section revealing the grass below. Large windows provide natural light and views of greenery outside. There are wooden furniture pieces, including a round coffee table and several chairs.

The Rooflight

We supplied and installed the Internal Walk On Unit as an integral part of the Balancing Barn's architectural design.

The installation provides a durable glazed surface capable of accommodating pedestrian traffic while allowing daylight and views to pass through the floor. This helps reinforce one of the building's defining characteristics: the sensation of being suspended within the landscape.

The rooflight sits naturally within the interior, complementing the building's restrained material palette and the ash-lined walls and ceilings.

A modern, reflective house with a long, sleek design sits on an open green landscape. Large windows with yellow frames allow natural light inside, while the roof features skylights. Surrounding trees provide a natural backdrop.

The Result

Balancing Barn demonstrates how specialist architectural glazing can be used to achieve more than simply providing natural light.

The Internal Rooflight creates a dramatic change in perspective, allowing occupants to look through the building and experience the space below.

The feature has become part of what visitors notice about the unique property.

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