boehning_zalenga Architekten

Description

What might contemporary living in a rural setting look like? Instead of continuing the trend of large-scale land consumption through the construction of multiple single-family homes, the decision was made in favour of a modern communal living concept, expressed through a rural architectural typology. The lot at the end of the village street is very deep and extends all the way to the edge of the forest. This has led to the development of a settlement structure that allows for a very compact layout consisting of three houses whose gable ends form a square at the end of the village street. The square offers opportunities for interaction with the villagers, while the side facing the forest serves as a contiguous garden area for privacy and relaxation. It was clear from the outset that flexibility should be an integral part of the housing concept, not an obstacle. To ensure that apartment sizes could be adjusted even after construction was complete, the team had to overcome challenges relating to access, structural requirements and building services in order to bring the concept to life. The hybrid timber construction combines the advantages of the various materials used, and the architectural style that was chosen highlights these features. The load-bearing elements are made of exposed concrete, the floors feature a pale-toned oiled exposed screed, and the exterior and interior walls of the timber-frame structures are clad in pine panelling. The balconies are framed by an irregular grid of narrow wooden posts, making them appear open in front while they are protected from view when seen from the side.