Einfamilienhaus Winkel
As part of a generational transition, the former production hall was replaced by a new residential building. The design follows the footprint of the previous industrial structure and integrates harmoniously into the surrounding neighborhood and mature tree population. Simple materials create a dialogue between tradition and contemporary architecture.
Nestled between residential buildings and mature trees, the site was originally occupied by a small former workshop of a family-run business. The initial intention of the client was to preserve the existing structure and add a retirement apartment above. However, structural investigations revealed that this would only be feasible through extensive measures and significant interventions in the existing fabric. Given these challenges and the limited plot size, the decision was made to construct a replacement building, with a footprint closely following the dimensions of the former hall.
The new building integrates harmoniously into its surroundings. Only the staircase was added to the south side of the three-storey volume. The architecture of the residential building is characterized by a simple yet confident façade that aligns seamlessly with the existing typology. A careful combination of timber and concrete materials creates a balanced contrast between warmth and permanence. The exposed concrete base and the attached stair core highlight the functional aspects of these parts of the structure. A basement level was deliberately omitted; instead, the garage, workshop, and technical rooms are housed within the ground floor.
To meet the requirements of an accessible retirement apartment, the staircase was detached from the main volume, and an elevator was integrated. The two upper residential floors are clad in structured timber. Vertical slats define the proportions of the windows and create a clear façade rhythm. Despite this disciplined structure, the bedrooms benefit from ample daylight thanks to up to three adjoining window elements. Distinct architectural accents are provided by the large lift-slide door to the terrace and the striking round window in the west-facing living room. A green stain lends the building a natural appearance and allows it to blend organically into the surrounding landscape.
The clearly defined footprint was both a constraint and a source of inspiration. The conditions of the site and the existing built context strongly influenced the design and resulted in an architecture that responds sensitively to its surroundings and respects the existing structures. The challenge lay in designing a building that, despite the limited area, creates a generous and light-filled living environment.
The project represents a careful further development of our office’s previously completed single-family houses. Characteristic elements such as the concrete base, timber façade, and pitched roof reappear here and are implemented with meticulous attention to construction, materials, and colour. A high level of craftsmanship and a coherent architectural language reflect the care and precision invested in every detail.
