This house was once home to workers of the Isartalbahn railway, which connected Munich, Bichl, and Kochel from 1898 to 1964. Built in 1936, Haus Herzogstand exemplifies the distinctive architecture of its era and region. In 2022, Munich architect Antje Bulthaup realized a long-held dream by acquiring this neglected railway house and breathing new life into it. She masterfully balanced her dual vision: preserving the building's historical character while meeting contemporary standards for comfort, energy efficiency, and carbon reduction. The result speaks for itself—the house now performs like a modern new build while maintaining its irreplaceable heritage.

The transformation required significant work. The original roof structure was dismantled and replaced with contemporary timber construction, creating a bright, airy attic apartment complete with a balcony. The updated units on the mezzanine and first floor share this same modern sensibility, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks and Kochel's village center. Energy resilience was paramount: comprehensive insulation, high-performance thermal windows, and a photovoltaic system with battery storage now power the home. Three buffer tanks maintain consistent energy supply even on cloudy days, while an efficient air-to-water heat pump delivers warmth through underfloor heating. Swedish-style stoves in each unit add both heating capacity and atmospheric warmth. The contrast with the pre-renovation state is striking—the original house had only wood stoves and a cast-iron "Wamsler" for heat, and no bathrooms at all. Today, every unit meets current living standards. Bulthaup's commitment extended beyond performance: she prioritized ecological materials and circular economy principles. Salvageable elements—floorboards, windows, and timber—were recovered and resold. The antique roof truss, too substantial to dismantle economically, was responsibly converted to firewood. She also sourced all materials locally and engaged regional contractors, supporting the community while minimizing transportation impact. Three of the five units now function as holiday rentals, and locals have embraced the project as a vital investment in preserving their heritage.

www.haus-herzogstand.de
www.antje-bulthaup.com

Photography:
Quirin Leppert
www.quirinleppert.de

(Published in CUBE Munich 03|24)