A Colorful, Bohemian Home in a Former Military Barracks near Utrecht
Tucked along the banks of the Vecht, just beyond the bustle of Utrecht, this extraordinary, colorful home is part of a hidden chapter of Dutch history.
Originally built around 1913 as military barracks for the New Dutch Water Line, the residence has since been converted into a warm, light-filled semi-detached home where heritage and contemporary comfort exist in perfect harmony.
From the moment you cross the private bridge and pass through the access gate, there is a sense of arrival. The surrounding landscape, unchanged for centuries, creates an atmosphere of peace and privacy that is almost impossible to find so close to the city. Yet Utrecht’s vibrant center is still only fifteen minutes away by bike or car.
The home itself underwent a meticulous renovation in 2015, preserving the soul of the original barracks while introducing every modern convenience.
Inside, the breathtaking wooden roof trusses immediately command attention. Their dramatic scale and craftsmanship define the interiors, stretching overhead through the main living spaces and giving every room a remarkable sense of height and character.
The living room forms the heart of the home. It’s a grand yet inviting space decorated in a bold pink and flooded with natural light from oversized windows that frame the surrounding greenery from every angle.
French doors open directly onto the garden, blurring the boundary between indoors and out and making the landscape feel like an extension of the living space itself.
At the rear of the home, the color scheme shifts to a green hue, with the contemporary kitchen enjoying serene garden views, creating an ideal setting for both quiet mornings and lively dinners with friends.
A guest bedroom on the ground floor features soaring ceilings and an earthy pink accent wall.
Upstairs are two double bedrooms beneath a striking timber framework.
The bathroom is designed as a calm retreat, complete with a bathtub, walk-in shower, vanity unit, and a separate second toilet.
The house includes a detached annex that can be used as a guest house, a studio, or a private retreat for a teenager.
The tiny house has a small living area, a kitchenette, a bathroom, and a sleeping loft.
Outside, the garden wraps around the east, south, and west sides of the property, ensuring sun and shade at every hour of the day. Mature greenery, open lawns, and uninterrupted views create an atmosphere that feels almost rural, despite being moments from the city.
The home sits beside Fort aan de Klop, part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed New Dutch Water Line. The nearby fort and surrounding nature reserve provide scenic walking paths, rich history, and a unique connection to the landscape that shaped this remarkable place.
The house is listed for €995,000 at Burgersdijk Makelaars.