Confident Purism
Clean geometry and restrained palette define a modern residence
White, uncompromisingly minimalist, and with an upper floor that appears to float above its solid base, this contemporary villa commands the streetscape of an early 1900s residential district. The architectural vision rests on a single principle: "less is more." The building's power lies in its clarity—two stacked cubic volumes with sharp, defined edges and precisely positioned façade openings that create a sense of calm. Designed by Hengstebeck Architects of Attendorn, who came highly recommended, the project resulted in a bespoke, future-proof home tailored to the owners' vision.
The clients sought something distinctive—a home that would feel modern, timeless, and distinctly cubic. White plaster, the signature material of classical modernism, became the façade's dominant language, punctuated and framed by black aluminium window and trim profiles. Remarkably, this compact structure houses 220 m² of living space. The site presented a significant challenge: limited dimensions combined with its orientation and neighbouring buildings. This was resolved through thoughtful spatial planning. The interiors are suffused with light and finished entirely in white fine plaster, creating a bright, welcoming atmosphere when paired with light grey flooring. Shadow gaps at wall-ceiling junctions and black accents throughout—on kitchen surfaces, door hardware, and bathroom fixtures—carry the exterior's graphic language indoors. The kitchen, conceived as a sculptural element, anchors the home's centre. Its clean lines and understated palette of light and charcoal greys integrate seamlessly with the residence's timeless, pared-down interior, as do the spa-like bathrooms. Large-format tiles on lower floors and the upper level reinforce the concept. The owners are delighted with their new home—the planning phase took roughly one month, with construction spanning eight months. They reflect: "The minimalism and cohesive colour palette convinced us immediately. The light-filled spaces with their expansive windows let us follow the sun's path through the day, constantly revealing new perspectives on the landscape we call home."
Photography Credits:
Markus Guhl
www.architekturfotograf-markus-guhl.com
(Published in CUBE Düsseldorf, Issue 04|22)