Sometimes it is the pragmatic solutions that give the building task a new dimension: While searching for a plot of land in the Frankfurt area, a couple found a plot in an existing housing estate that was actually too large for the space requirements and wishes of the family of five, but which offered a special distant view thanks to its elevated hillside location. Ricardo Ferreira Architects from Meerbusch near Düsseldorf, who were commissioned to design the house, developed the idea for a prestigious semi-detached house with the clients - although it only became clear during the sales process for the right-hand half of the plot that the second owner also wanted to follow the architects' preliminary plans. The staggered and sculpturally designed building facing the street has a correspondingly harmonious effect - underlined by the uniformly designed outdoor facilities, which lend the whole a Mediterranean touch.

The hillside location proved to be a particular challenge during the planning phase. In order to optimally group the various uses, the garages for the two house units had to be planned as underground garages. They are accessed from the street on opposite sides of the plot and are located below garden level, with access to the respective basement. Access to the first floor of the two adjoining houses is via a separate external staircase on each side of the plot. The buildings, which are developed in the depth of the plot, are grouped in such a way that a sculptural interplay is created on the outside - also emphasized by the differentiated façade design with smooth and broom finish plaster areas in contrasting colours. On the first floor, both houses have an open floor plan and yet clearly zoned living, dining and cooking areas. These are optimally lit and, thanks to large sliding window elements, allow a variety of views into the garden. At the same time, a spatial highlight is a cross-floor air space with a gallery above the dining area, which is effectively illuminated by an opulent skylight. To the south and east are terraces and outdoor seating areas, without being visible from the neighboring half of the house. An elongated staircase leads to the two upper floors, which are fully equipped as a children's floor and a parents' wing with a spacious dressing room and master bathroom ensuite as well as two roof terraces. The architects were responsible for the minimalist design of the interiors in both houses. Underfloor heating, which is operated by a gas condensing boiler, ensures the right room temperature, while the controlled ventilation system provides additional heat recovery. A KNX smart home system was used for the building services.

www.rfcv.de

Photos:

Julia Vogel
www.julia-vogel.com

(Published in CUBE Frankfurt 01|24)