Traditionally, a house follows a familiar pattern: living spaces on the ground floor, private rooms—bedrooms, children's rooms, bathrooms—above. Kai Binnewies had other ideas. This architect-turned-homeowner flipped the script for his family, and his inventive approach to building on a modest plot has earned considerable recognition both locally and among his peers.

Finding a building plot near Münster requires equal parts searching and luck. After an extensive hunt, Kai Binnewies discovered his ideal site—385 m²—tucked into the former garden of an apartment building. The north-facing slope and stringent building codes presented significant constraints. Cubic volume, roof pitch, and materials were all predetermined. Following regional convention, the finished structure features a clinker brick façade, with exposed concrete at the base and glazed gable ends that flood the open-plan house with light while lending it contemporary character. For detailed planning, Binnewies partnered with former colleague Jörgen Dreher—a decision that proved invaluable. Their productive collaboration shines through in countless details. Both architects agreed that the finest space should sit at the top. In place of a cramped attic, they created a soaring two-story living room.

The sloping terrain distributes 157 m² of living space across five distinct levels. The master suite anchors the lower level. The entrance level serves as the children's quarters, complete with its own bathroom and direct garden access from both bedrooms—a layout that could easily convert to a granny flat later. Above sits the open-plan kitchen, which also connects to the garden via internal stairs. A compact home office occupies the level directly above the kitchen. Between the kitchen and living room—just a few steps up—stands a full-height tunnel fireplace that serves both spaces. This custom piece is as functional as it is striking: using properly seasoned wood, it efficiently heats the home while maintaining ecological integrity, and it's backed by an air-to-water heat pump. The living room itself delivers an immediate wow factor. Soaring to the roof ridge and framed by glazed gables and delicate railings, it feels expansive and welcoming.

www.kai-binnewies.de
www.joergendreher.de

Photography Credits:

Kai Binnewies

(Published in CUBE Ruhrgebiet 02|21)