The design philosophy was clear: build only what's needed, minimize environmental impact, and let the choice of materials and energy solutions reflect the owners' deep ecological commitment. Architect Bastian Brakemeier proved to be the ideal partner, having spent a decade dedicated to sustainable design and construction practices. Wood and natural materials—clay and lime plasters among them—are his materials of choice, significantly reducing the CO₂ emissions typically associated with building projects. This timber house represents a true collaboration between Holzhaut Architektur and the homeowners, who brought creativity and hands-on expertise to every phase. As energy consultants themselves, they took charge of the entire building systems planning, ensuring every technical detail aligned with their vision.

Built using timber frame construction, the house sits on a generous sloping plot, seemingly floating above the landscape on reinforced concrete supports and nestled thoughtfully among mature trees. The site selection was deliberate—minimizing tree removal and eliminating the need for a basement meant virtually no land sealing. The foundation extends slightly beyond the structure, creating a platform for a generous terrace offering unobstructed views across the valley below.

Compact and intentional, the 100 m² dwelling features clean lines, modest windows on the uphill side, and expansive glazing on the opposite elevation to capture natural light. A road below provides vehicular access; from there, a path and stairs lead to the entrance on the uphill side. The façade is clad in larch wood—naturally rot-resistant thanks to its high resin content and left untreated to weather gracefully. Cellulose insulation ensures thermal performance and healthy indoor air quality, while solid timber was used throughout the interior. Space is utilized fully to the open roof structure, where a wooden staircase with a small gallery accesses the upper bedrooms. The owners completed most of the interior work themselves. A small pellet boiler, combined with solar thermal panels and photovoltaic cells, handles heating and hot water needs.

www.holzhaut.de
www.fair-trade-haus.de

Photography Credits:

Hanno Köhncke
www.hannokoehncke.de

(Featured in CUBE Ruhrgebiet 01|21)