Harmony with edges and corners

Nestled in a quiet neighbourhood, a little treasure awaited the planners – a run-down bungalow in a neglected garden, but located right on the edge of the forest. The task: to create a building that would connect the living space with its surroundings, offering maximum views of the green environment while serving as a retreat for its residents. They found the solution in two funnel-like forms, which open up into the surroundings, slightly offset, and are connected by a transparent walkway. From one side, the building is perceived as a solid ensemble, with generous cut-outs framing the landscape. On the other side, there is great openness, with extensively glazed façades and a courtyard-like centrepiece. 

The two structures are differentiated by use: The two-storey main building contains all the essential functions, with an open-plan kitchen and dining area and an office on the ground floor, as well as three bedrooms and a bathroom on the upper floor. The second structure houses a spacious seating area, with an L-shaped glazed living room connected to the main building via the intermediary structure. One particularly striking feature is the flooring: The same bricks that were used for the façade have been installed as flooring. This creates an exciting triad with the other floor materials, concrete and parquet. In addition to these earthy, solid materials, brown woods also contribute to the warm, natural ambience of the interior – a nod to the 1960s.

Another striking feature is the custom-made windows, each with its own character and tailored to the view in front of them and the rooms behind. Together with experienced carpenters, the future residents also lent a hand here. For example, the recessed, cassette-style windows in the kitchen area make every view of the outside world appear like a framed picture. However, in addition to craftsmanship, high-tech was also required, at least as far as the building technology is concerned. A Gira KNX system works in the background, intelligently controlling all aspects of living comfort. The pushbutton sensor 4 for KNX and the Gira G1 multi-touch display are used as operating elements. The switches and socket outlets are from the Gira E2 design line in the flat installation variant in black matt. This is how technology and nature combine to create a very special retreat – angular, timeless and harmonious all at once.