“>CHARACTER FROM CONSTRAINT
The starting point of the project was a narrow building plot with a peculiar, non-orthogonal geometry that defied conventional building logics. What initially appeared as a limitation was deliberately understood as an architectural opportunity. Together with the client, we decided not to negate the existing conditions but to make them the organizing principle of the design.
The realization of this single-family home was only possible through intensive dialogue with neighbors and authorities. Communication, time, and mutual understanding formed the basis for sensitively integrating an independent architectural contribution into the existing settlement structure. The project is therefore not just a building, but also the result of a cooperative planning process.
GEOMETRY AS DESIGN DRIVER
The special plot shape required a precise examination of scale, spatial economy, and orientation. The floor plan consistently follows the geometry of the building site, developing an independent internal spatial figure from it. This creates surprising sightlines, differentiated spatial sequences, and high spatial quality despite compact dimensions.
The house is clearly structured and offers long-term flexibility for a growing family. The organization across three levels allows for functional separation while maintaining spatial connection.
CLARITY IN SECTION – LIVING ON 3 LEVELS
All ancillary and technical rooms are located in the basement. The ground floor, with its living, dining, and cooking areas, forms the communicative center of the house, connecting indoor and outdoor spaces through generous openings. On the upper floor, the bedrooms are clearly zoned; parent and children’s areas are deliberately separated, allowing for different uses across various life stages.
MATERIALITY AND CONSTRUCTION
The basement was constructed using precast concrete elements, while the above-ground floors consist of prefabricated solid wood elements. This construction combines precision, short construction times, and a low ecological footprint.
The rear-ventilated, untreated wooden facade ages naturally, developing an individual patina depending on weather and orientation. Thus, the factor of time visibly becomes part of the architecture.
LIGHT, VIEW AND LANDSCAPE
Strategically placed window openings frame the surrounding mountain landscape, creating a balanced interplay of views, light, and privacy. The reduced formal language is complemented by precise details and vertical wooden lamellas, which serve as both design elements and passive sun protection. Cantilevered elements of the upper floor also provide shading for the ground floor, reducing the need for technical shading.
ENERGY AND INNOVATION
An essential component of the sustainable concept is the in-roof photovoltaic system with a storage system. It simultaneously functions as roof covering, combining energy generation, weather protection, and design. The flush-mounted installation avoids structural weak points and improves resistance to snow and wind loads. This creates a nearly self-sufficient energy system. By constructing the substructure in wood instead of aluminum, the CO₂-intensive metal component was completely replaced.
CONCLUSION
This single-family home demonstrates that even challenging residual plots have the potential for extraordinary architecture. The consistent engagement with geometry, material, sustainability, and use led to a building that appears restrained, precise and self-confident – individual, contemporary, and with a clear architectural stance.
