D. Residence
In place of a modest masonry house with a neighboring stable evolved a small, freely grouped “hamlet” consisting of two residential buildings and a small storage shed. The original ensemble on the forest edge radiated an organically developed and relaxed atmosphere. Inspired by the “genius loci”, the architect reinterpreted the traditional rural timber buildings: For instance, the optical transparency in the vertical cladding of farm buildings is employed in the design of the front façade with the entrance area behind it. Several bench elements are integrated in and between the houses.
Tom Lechner sees contemporary interpretations of historical precedents “not only as an aspiration but the only right answer for the development of such projects in rural areas” – in this case for the second residence of a conductor and his large family.
The garage door is flush with the façade and barely perceivable. The car disappears in all of its environmental detriments. As a counterpart to the client’s city life, “a place of retreat and rural identity” should be created where “one is happy to arrive, relaxes, and departs recharged with energy”.
The archetypal main house and the neighboring guest house afford this atmosphere. Inside, rough sawn silver fir and simple screed floors bind subtle haptics with spatial coherence. Precisely placed openings offer inviting views down the slope or wide out over the hilly landscape. Optimal usage of the hillside location and the roof pitches (bedroom, guest apartment) lends the compact building volumes spatial diversity and generosity. The attractive entrance zone also accommodates a workspace and a small bridge.
Surface Area: 205 m²
Cubage: 1 544 m³
Start of Planning: February 2012
Completion: December 2012
