Embracing Tradition with Exceptional Design – “Erve Nieuwkamp”
A classic farmhouse reimagined with contemporary design, featuring a spacious outbuilding, heated natural swimming pond, horse stables, riding arena, and extensive grazing land.
The serene charm of a 19th-century farmhouse combined with sophisticated contemporary architecture: “Erve Nieuwkamp” is a true rural fairytale. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over the characteristic bocage landscape, with the beautiful nature reserve ’t Hagenbeek as a scenic backdrop and the Lochemse Berg directly adjacent. This country estate in Barchem occupies one of the most beautiful locations in the Achterhoek region. Here you will find peace, space, and an intimate connection with the seasons and the land.
This magnificent farmhouse, together with its striking thatched outbuilding, was originally built in 1874 and transformed into a contemporary residence by Maas Kristinsson Architects. Carefully designed sightlines—both indoors and outdoors—and an abundance of natural light define its modern character, while the essence of the historic property has been respectfully preserved. A beautiful example of this is the reinterpretation of the traditional onderschoer.
The finishing materials were selected with uncompromising quality in mind, using as many natural and artisanal materials as possible: wood, thatch, steel, natural stone, and glass. The result is a home that offers exceptional living comfort and elegant spaces, while still feeling warm and inviting, with cozy corners throughout to relax and enjoy the surrounding landscape. The outbuilding is equally impressive.
Horse enthusiasts will appreciate the convenience of keeping horses at home. The stable building (constructed in 2002) accommodates three horses and includes feed and tack rooms, with ample grazing land available. A 20 x 60 metre riding arena, complete with irrigation system and lighting, allows for year-round riding in all weather conditions. The surrounding countryside is simply magnificent and ideal for scenic trail rides.
The House
The farmhouse has entrances at both the front and side, with the traditional “back entrance” serving as the main entrance—after all, this is the Achterhoek. The walls are smoothly plastered and painted in fresh white tones, while beautiful natural stone tiles cover the floors. Naturally, the entire ground floor benefits from underfloor heating.
The side entrance hall features a guest toilet with washbasin and wardrobe to the left, while to the right is the passage leading to the living room and dining room.
The living room is truly stunning, with the staircase making a bold architectural statement. The original oak beams have been beautifully preserved and integrate effortlessly into the sleek interior. Located at the rear of the house, the room enjoys magnificent views through large glass façades overlooking the former farmhouse wall, the garden, and the surrounding meadows. The spacious seating area is exceptionally atmospheric, centred around a modern black media unit with a gas fireplace.
The custom-designed Bulthaup kitchen is nothing short of impressive. It features a cooking island with minimalist handleless anthracite cabinetry, a stainless-steel countertop, and all desirable built-in appliances, including a four-burner gas hob, combination microwave oven, coffee machine, dishwasher, and fridge-freezer. Abundant storage space is provided by numerous drawers and cabinets, making it a dream kitchen for any chef. Guests can comfortably gather around the integrated dining table.
Separated by a glass sliding door at the front of the house lies the elegant dining room, complete with a classic mantelpiece, beamed ceiling, and wood-burning stove. Adjacent is the hall leading to the traditional raised room (opkamer) with cellar below, currently used as a home office.
There is also a practical utility room with pantry, extensive built-in cabinetry, and connections for a washing machine and dryer.
First Floor
The upper floor is equally refined, featuring two generous bedrooms on opposite sides of the house, connected by an elegant landing corridor. The spacious bathroom includes a large walk-in shower, luxurious bathtub, toilet, and double washbasin. A substantial built-in wardrobe and walk-in closet complete the accommodation.
The Schöppe (Outbuilding)
The adjacent schöppe is a true gem, distinguished by its sleek thatched mansard roof and fresh red ridge tiles that provide a beautiful contrast.
On the ground floor, the front section houses a spacious double garage, adjoining a charming outdoor kitchen with oak cabinetry, concrete-look worktop, gas burners with plancha, refrigerator, and staircase with guest toilet. Outside, a terrace with outdoor fireplace creates the perfect setting for entertaining.
Upstairs are a landing with storage space, a bright and sunny living area, a bedroom, and a bathroom with walk-in shower, double washbasin, toilet, and washing machine connection.
Outdoor Living
Through the beautifully designed wrought-iron entrance gates by Rein Tupker of Soest, you enter the enclosed estate. The grounds form a harmonious blend of functionality and enjoyment: grazing meadows combined with beautifully landscaped gardens. The rear garden was designed by landscape architects Grondig Geniethen, preserving the openness of the landscape. Borders are elegantly defined with corten steel edging, ensuring year-round visual appeal.
A heated natural swimming pond with jet streams and a reed filtration system offers the perfect place for a refreshing swim. Naturally, this idyllic setting is shared with local wildlife—roe deer, hares, squirrels, hedgehogs, and countless birds all consider this garden their home as well.
Approximately 10,000 m² of grazing land is currently available for horses, with the possibility of expanding the meadows to more than 5.5 hectares.
Barchem – Between Vorden, Lochem and Ruurlo
Living in Barchem is simply a pleasure. This charming village in the heart of the Achterhoek is surrounded by several nature reserves, making it particularly popular with tourists. Whether walking—perhaps with a dog—cycling, or horseback riding, nature is undoubtedly the area’s greatest attraction. Barchem increasingly presents itself as a walking village, with its annual Walking Four Days event as a highlight.
It is an accessible village with a vibrant community life. The annual Barchemse Feesten attract visitors from near and far. Amenities include an excellent primary school, bakery, general store, and fitness centre. The local church hosts both religious services and cultural events, offering something for everyone.
For the conveniences of city life, the towns of Lochem, Vorden, and Ruurlo are all within a ten-minute drive, while the A1 motorway can be reached in just fifteen minutes. Everything is within easy reach.
In Summary
“Erve Nieuwkamp” is a true Achterhoek paradise—a wonderful place to unwind and enjoy the best of country living. We would be delighted to show you this exceptional property.
General Information
Year built: 1874; fully renovated and modernised in 2010
Condition: Excellent
Insulation: Roof insulation, cavity wall insulation, double glazing (except window above front door), and ground floor insulation
Heating: Remeha–Brink central heating boiler (2010); underfloor heating throughout the ground floor (except raised room) and bathroom
Location: On the edge of the ’t Hagenbeek nature reserve
Stable: Three horse stalls
Outbuilding: Double thatched garage
Special features: Home automation and alarm system, heated natural swimming pond, 20 x 60 m riding arena, integrated air conditioning throughout the house
Dimensions
Volume: 800 m³
Living area: 215 m²
Other internal space: 52 m²
Covered outdoor space: 40 m²
External storage space: 193 m²
Plot size: Approximately 1.4 hectares (expandable to over 5.5 hectares)
Energy label: B
Transfer date: By mutual agreement
This property has been provided with a structural building inspection report and an energy performance certificate.
