When client and architect share a common vision, exceptional projects emerge. Such was the case in Dortmund-Hombruch, where a four-person family entrusted Lohse Architects with their single-family home design. In this coveted neighbourhood, known for its rolling hills, parks, and allotments, an undeveloped plot remained—the final piece in an established residential area. Having the client's brother as a neighbour proved invaluable during the intense coordination phase. The real test came with the site itself: at just 604 m², space was at a premium. Every square centimetre of the permissible building envelope had to count. "We exploited every possible millimetre of the allowable footprint," recalls architect Moritz Lohse, who guided the project from initial sketch through to building approval.

The clients laid important groundwork before breaking ground. From day one, they had all critical information at hand: site conditions, design preferences, desired living area, spatial requirements, and budget parameters. The new home needed to stand apart from the neighbouring Bauhaus-style structures, with their white stucco facades and anthracite windows. For this linear building's façade, the architects selected a soft grey tone, warmed by the wooden entrance door—an inviting threshold that sets the tone. Directly adjacent sits a double carport constructed of timber, positioned along the shared boundary with the brother's property and divided equally between them. The home itself offers approximately 160 m² of living space.

The minimalist approach presents restrained fenestration toward the street, but opens generously toward the garden with floor-to-ceiling windows on the ground floor and expansive glazing above. Forgoing a basement to control costs, the ground floor accommodates storage and mechanical systems alongside residential spaces. The largely glazed living area flows seamlessly onto a terrace and into the garden beyond. The dining room, kitchen, entry, and guest bath complete this efficient layout, warmed by parquet flooring and timber stairs that create an inviting atmosphere. The upper floor contains a playroom, study, guest bedroom, master bedroom, two children's bedrooms, and bathroom. As a solid construction home meeting KfW 55 standards, the residence features underfloor heating, triple-glazed aluminium-timber windows, and geothermal energy systems. A local building contractor brought the design to completion.

www.lohse-architekten.de

Photos:
S. H. Schroeder
www.shschroeder.com

(Published in CUBE Ruhrgebiet 02|25)