Atelier ST

Description

In keeping with the motto «two are better than one», we joined two narrow gabled houses together in such a way that they merge into one large living experience on the inside. This trick made it possible to stay within the small scale of the neighbourhood while still accommodating the clients’ demanding room programme. The single-shell exposed concrete of the exterior walls forms the primary load-bearing structure, behind which lies the thermal insulation made of ecological hemp limestone plastered with natural clay. Natural light with its many moods penetrates the glazed round portal of the entrance area. As if in a cave, the arched shapes in the doors and passageways continue throughout the house and connect the open cooking and dining area. The living level is slightly elevated; some visitors refer to it as an almost sacred space that reaches up to the roof. The private master bedroom is located on another intermediate level, and a few steps above it are rooms for children and guests as well as an office. Each room celebrates its own view of nature and deliberately plays with the discrepancy between the elongated double shape of the house and the contrasting room structure. Our aim was to create a cosy ambience that, in the interplay between openness and retreat, shell and content, light and shadow, is rooted in the past and equally connected to the future.