A Harmonious Balance
Reimagining a historic structure to create two distinct homes
In Kelsterbach, Fröhlich Gassner Architects have breathed new life into a charming, locally-typical half-timbered house. Their renovation stands as a compelling example of how traditional craftsmanship and contemporary living can coexist beautifully. By treating the historic fabric with sensitivity and selecting natural materials throughout, the architects have crafted homes that satisfy both ecological and aesthetic values—proving that sustainable building and heritage preservation needn't compete with comfort and livability.
The monochromatic white façade presents a striking, unified presence to the street, while the rear loggia reveals the exposed timber frame in all its glory. At the owners' request, the architects divided the interior into two separate apartments. The ground floor welcomes visitors with a bright, inviting two-room flat featuring spacious, functional living areas warmed by natural materials. A courtyard staircase ascends to the upper unit, which occupies the first floor and attic. The showstopper is the open-plan attic living space, where the historic roof truss—the structural skeleton of the timber frame—remains fully visible and celebrated. Large dormers and the loggia flood the space with daylight and countryside views while amplifying the sense of generous, flowing space.
Utility spaces—toilets, kitchens, and technical systems—were consolidated into a compact service core positioned at the property boundary. This strategic placement freed up the western and courtyard-facing walls for high-quality living spaces. The renovation prioritized wood and clay: warm clay plaster, timber windows and flooring, exposed ceiling joists, and visible roof trusses throughout the attic. Reinforcement of the timber frame and ceilings employed solid wood, while soft wood fiber insulation protects the roof and exterior walls. The flooring layers—wood chips, soft wood fiber, radiant heating, and solid oak planks—create a foundation that's both sustainable and supports a naturally healthy indoor climate.
Living space: 184 m²
Plot size: 711 m²
Construction period: 11/2022 to 03/2024
Construction method: Half-timbered
Energy concept: The existing structure was upgraded with improved roof insulation and a new gas heating system.
Photography:
Celia Uhalde
www.celiauhalde.com
(Published in CUBE Frankfurt 03|24)
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