Peristilio House by B2A – A Modern Roman-Inspired Extension in Utrecht

Peristilio House, designed by B2A architects, is a 60m² home extension in Utrecht, Netherlands that redefines the relationship between interior living and garden space. Completed in 2022, the project balances compactness with openness, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor connection through refined architectural gestures.

The client’s vision for a small but spacious extension led B2A to explore timeless architectural principles. Inspired by the classical Roman peristilio, the architects introduced a perimeter colonnade structure that blurs the boundaries between terrace, garden, and interior. This modern reinterpretation of a colonnaded courtyard introduces rhythm, openness, and a sense of elegance, while remaining deeply rooted in its Dutch suburban context.

Architecture & Spatial Experience

The extension enlarges the existing living room while framing views toward the garden. A sheltered yet open colonnade corridor serves as a transitional space, unifying the brick and concrete façade with the outdoor terrace. Columns create a rhythmic sequence of light and shadow, enhanced by a bespoke lighting concept from PSLab, which adds theatrical depth and atmosphere to the space.

The terrace itself functions like an outdoor “room” — enclosed by three façades and open to the garden, offering a fluid extension of daily living activities. This cadenced transition ensures a tranquil flow between indoors and outdoors, aligning with Mediterranean courtyard traditions while adopting a contemporary architectural expression.

Materials & Craftsmanship

B2A selected materials that emphasize both solidity and refinement. The stucco white walls and concrete flooring establish a calm backdrop, while a custom wooden book closet adds warmth and intimacy to the living area. On the exterior, the interplay of brick and concrete communicates timeless strength, while stone-grey aluminum frames around windows and sliding doors integrate seamlessly into the design.

This combination of materials bridges the gap between tradition and modernity, reinforcing the Roman-inspired colonnade concept with a sustainable and durable palette.

Sustainability & Performance

Beyond aesthetics, the extension enhances the overall performance of the home. Triple-glazed windows, solar panels on the roof, and distributed underfloor heating optimize energy efficiency, reducing costs and environmental impact. These sustainable features ensure that Peristilio House is not only elegant, but also environmentally responsible.

Design Philosophy

For B2A, architecture is about crafting spaces that elevate the everyday experience. Founding Partner Tjerk Boom describes the project as:

“A person’s home is their palace. Peristilio’s colonnade’s curvilinear outdoor ‘room’, which references Italian palazzos, lends elegance and sophistication to what could be a very ordinary extension.”

Peristilio House stands as a harmonious blend of classical inspiration and contemporary design, offering a refined architectural extension that enhances living quality while contributing to sustainable housing in the Netherlands.

All Photographs are works of MWA Hart Nibbrig