Bolwoningen is a unique residential complex located in the Maaspoort district of ’s-Hertogenbosch. Consisting of around 50 spherical houses elevated on cylindrical pillars, it offers a futuristic and experimental living concept envisioned in the early 1980s.
Galerie photos
Erik Wannee, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Origin and Purpose of the Project
Designed by architect, designer and sculptor Dries Kreijkamp, these “bolwoningen” were built thanks to a government grant dedicated to experimental housing. The project aimed to create lightweight, affordable and transportable homes — a utopian response to the housing challenges of the time, but never reproduced on a larger scale.
Design and Architecture
- Spherical fiberglass-reinforced concrete structure, placed on a cylindrical base housing the entrance, staircase, storage and utilities.
- Each unit has three levels: bedroom (lower level), bathroom (middle level), and living room/kitchen at the top.
- Diameter of about 5.5 m with a living space of ~55 m², arranged vertically around a spiral staircase.
Living Experience
Despite their unusual shape, these homes are still inhabited today: residents, visitors and architects view them as a living curiosity. The vertical layout and circular windows provide light but make the space compact, best suited for singles or couples without children.
Cultural Significance
Bolwoningen remains a rare example of bold social housing architecture; they represent a built utopia, balancing radiant design with questions about modern living.
Practical Information
Located in Maaspoort, ’s-Hertogenbosch, the houses can be viewed freely from the outside (they are private residences). Information panels explain their history. A great stop to combine with exploring the city.
Visiting Tips
- Perfect for photographers, design enthusiasts and architecture lovers.
- Please respect residents’ privacy: admire only from the outside.
- Combine your visit with other modern discoveries in Den Bosch for a thematic day out.