On a coveted residential site in Essen-Kettwig, a 1,400 m² corner plot at the intersection of Thiemannstraße and Ferdinand-Weerth-Straße was subdivided and developed with two modernist single-family homes. A striking red beech tree marking the corner was carefully preserved, now anchoring the entrance to one of the residences. According to Stephan Scholz of Kirchner Architekten—the firm leading the project—this mature specimen actually influenced the spatial arrangement of both structures.

The architects faced an intriguing challenge: designing two new homes that read as a cohesive ensemble while maintaining distinct identities. The corner location proved advantageous, allowing dual access and creating a naturally staggered composition. The result is striking—each residence gains exceptional privacy in its outdoor spaces, which are largely screened from view. The gentle south-facing slope created an additional one-metre level variation between ground floors and exterior areas. Both homes feature a 3.70 x 9.00 m pool, each bordered by an expansive Bangkirai wood deck. The upper floors cantilever beyond the ground level, casting shade across the garden terraces on one side while creating sheltered entryways on the other.

At 300 and 400 m² respectively, both homes are generously sized. Open living zones flow seamlessly from kitchen to dining to living—maintaining clarity and elegance in their spatial logic. Expansive glazing frames views to the garden and terraces, flooding interiors with natural light and connecting residents visually to the pool areas. The design vocabulary centres on wood, glass, and white-painted walls, with the sculptural staircases commanding particular attention. These striking elements, separated from surrounding spaces only by glass, rise through the interiors as defining sculptural forms. Oiled white oak floorboards—left natural in one home, finished grey in the other—extend to the stairs themselves, creating a unified, refined aesthetic throughout. Private family spaces occupy the upper floors, with each master suite featuring an adjoining dressing room and ensuite bath. Children's rooms pair with a shared bathroom; in one home, the eldest daughter claims her own retreat in the basement—two rooms, a bath, and a private terrace. Sustainability was also paramount. Both residences are equipped with geothermal heat pumps paired with photovoltaic systems and battery storage.

www.kirchnerarchitekten.de

Photography Credits:

Peter Gwiazda
www.petergwiazda.de

(Published in CUBE Ruhrgebiet 02|20)