Every detail contributes to how users perceive a design. In this Zoom-In, we focus on fences, balustrades, and railings—elements that influence not only the sense of security and physical support within a space, but also the overall experience.
Whether it is to keep unwanted visitors out or to provide support as someone ascends a staircase, these elements play a crucial role in how people experience a space on a daily basis. We believe that these details should be an integral part of the design, as demonstrated in the following projects.
Gate between outside and inside
When you arrive at a building, the first thing you often encounter is the gate. In essence, a fence serves as the gate between outside and inside. It provides a sense of security as its purpose is to keep people out or close off the site. A physical barrier such as a fence needs to be at least 1.20m high in order to make it serve for security. You can choose for a closed design to emphasize that feeling even more. But also a decorative gate can serve this purpose of security, as you can see at the house on the Kortijnweg.
A key feature of this renovation project is the custom-designed fencing. Inspired by the Art Deco style of the house, the fencing was carefully crafted to reinforce its historical charm while ensuring security and privacy. Details in Art Deco have decorative patterns with complex rhythm that are repeated, creating an image that has different layers of interpretation. In our fence we playfully worked with horizontal and vertical lining. We have chosen to make a more open designed fence so that the building feels more accessible and welcoming.
Inside a building
When considering interiors, fencing elements—such as balustrades—also play a crucial role in both aesthetics and functionality. At the Laboratory in Willemstad, we opted for modern, transparent balustrades and railings. This choice complements the overall design, where openness and interaction are central. The transparency of the spaces encourages spontaneous encounters and easy communication.
Places for rest, connection with nature, and social interactions are fundamental principles in our design philosophy. By incorporating transparent elements, we foster an inviting atmosphere that promotes both tranquility and engagement. For the design of railings in public buildings like the Lab we use the Dutch building regulations since they are more detailed. These regulations describe that a railing at an opening with a drop of up to 13 meters should be 1000mm high and that the first 700mm should not be climb-able. The main material of the balustrades are mainly made of steel and class the handrail is made out of hardwood for warmer appearance and touch. Inside we continuously were looking for the balance between sterile laboratory look and the warmer human feeling.
Connecting different types
When working on a large-scale project like the Green Flash House on Saba, designers must consider how different types of fencing connect seamlessly. This 1000m2 villa is a blend of two architectural styles: traditional Saban architecture and Mediterranean influences. People may find the details distinctly Mediterranean. But the layout is classic Saban. I analyzed all kinds of historic cottages on Saba at the time and found that common room sizes are 6x4m. That is why we have maintained the 6 meter-size with each room. The pattern in the fencing is one of many details that also expresses this mix. The design of the main balustrades is consistently applied throughout the project to create rhythm and recognition.
Within the villa, we designed four different staircases, each featuring a unique balustrade and railing design. Outside there are two more stairs, one attached to the villa and one as a route to the parking and guest house. When working with projects of this size it is important that all the detailed elements fit together in some way. To maintain a sense of unity, we chose to use the same type of wood for all the stair railings and the main balustrades. The choice of wood was essential in achieving the Mediterranean aesthetic.
To ensure the durability of this material, we tested various types of wood. Before making a final selection, we placed samples in the Saban forest, which allowed us to observe how each type responded to the local climate. We paid close attention to their resistance to local insects—especially termites. Through this process, we were able to identify the material best suited for the project.
Fences in public spaces
How does fencing function in a public space? Mangrove City Park provides an excellent example, featuring gates at several exit points. The main entrance at the sea side is a temporary entrance, in the future an inviting main entrance will be realized as part of the visitors center – that still has to be built.
Often, fencing in public settings serves both to enclose areas and to regulate access. The regulations for fencing in public spaces is more ambiguous. Often public spaces that border to water bodies do not have fences, for instance the Handelskade or along the walkway around Waaigat. For the Mangrove Park we have fencing everywhere where the drop is more than 1 meter and for all the paths that cross the big pond.
We opted for simplicity in our design, allowing nature to take center stage. As visitors can experience for themselves when walking into the park. Balustrades provide guidance along the created walking routes, enhancing both the aesthetic appeal and practical functionality of the space. To create an engaging experience, the park features a network of paths designed to encourage exploration. At key intersections, the walking paths are elevated, allowing canoeists and visitors to meet.
The balustrades and railings also extend into the lookout tower, ensuring visual continuity throughout the design. By positioning the tower outside the densely vegetated areas, we maintain a peaceful environment for wildlife while offering visitors an unobstructed view of the landscape.
Zoom-out/Zoom-in
For us it is important to make sure that these type of elements are part of the design. As are more details. This article is part of our Zoom-out/Zoom-in series, which expands on a topic relevant to our designs or that delves deeper into one of those details. Each month, a new topic takes the spotlight, offering insights into the approach and expertise of our firm.
