Based in Recklinghausen with his architectural practice, Dr. Hermann Klapheck found his dream plot after years of searching—and realized an exceptional vision. He designed and built two stunning 300 m² detached homes on the property, making one his own residence. While they might appear as twins at first glance, each reveals itself as a distinct design that respects their shared language while maintaining its own character.

The nearly 4,300 m² plot borders a landscape conservation area. Two aging buildings and outbuildings once occupied this idyllic setting—all were cleared away. The land was then subdivided, providing the neighboring residence with 1,270 m² of garden space. The architect, a Bauhaus enthusiast, never envisioned living under a gabled roof. Yet the stringent design guidelines demanded precisely this form. Rising tent-like to a 60-degree pitch, the two peaks create a compelling spatial atmosphere and are anchored by a low-profile building component. Or so it appears—the seemingly flat section actually incorporates a subtle slope, completely concealed from view. "I wanted to avoid conventional roof tiles and guttering," explains Hermann Klapheck. "Instead, I specified thin Tegalit tiles and powder-coated aluminum trim at the eaves—barely visible to the eye." Rainwater drains into a discreet collection channel. The floor-to-ceiling windows are equally refined: their frames disappear behind the wall's thermal insulation layer, creating an exceptionally delicate visual impression. Inside, you step directly into the living spaces, appointed with plush carpeting. Tall kitchen cabinetry serves as a room divider from the open kitchen, which flows naturally into the dining area—anchored by an eco-conscious electric steam fireplace that radiates warmth and comfort. Full-height doors amplify the sense of spatial height. A white-painted steel staircase, elegantly wrapped by two curved masonry walls, ascends to the upper floor where bedrooms and bath are located. The two "tent" sections connect via a bridge; utility lines were strategically routed to allow future reconfiguration without major renovation. Geothermal heating supplies warmth through an underfloor system that heats and cools adaptively. Should extreme conditions demand additional cooling, discrete wall-mounted air conditioning units—designed to resemble artwork—serve each room.

The second home mirrors its neighbor's material vocabulary from the exterior. The garage sits to one side. The pointed gables are strategically offset, each only partially glazed. A deliberately different floor plan distinguishes this residence, featuring a dedicated foyer, oak parquet on the ground level, and carpeting upstairs.

www.dr-klapheck.de

Living and usable space: 300 m²
Plot size: 3,000 m²
Construction period: 1 year, 2020–2021
Construction type: Solid masonry
Energy system: Geothermal heat pump

Photography Credits:

Dr. Klapheck Architectural Practice
Engel & Völkers Real Estate Recklinghausen

(Published in CUBE Ruhrgebiet 04|21)