At first glance, this appears to be a single-family residence. Yet architect Leifpeter Reichwald has masterfully created a two-unit residential building using solid construction methods. Separate entrances and distinctly different façade treatments ensure each unit maintains its own identity—nothing about this feels like a conventional duplex. The building's minimalist, cubic form strikes a compelling balance: a dark, smooth plaster façade contrasts beautifully with light, textured timber elements. This refined composition harmonizes seamlessly with the surrounding neighborhood, where freely standing structures are nestled among generous green spaces. From the street, you see a two-story structure. But the plot's sloping topography reveals the building's true dimension—a clever three-story design that maximizes the site. The house faces south at the rear, allowing the architects to push the building toward the northern edge of the slope and maximize garden space. The result is an expansive outdoor area with views framed by native shrubs and trees. What's particularly ingenious is how the two units diverge in form: one unit stretches slightly wider but shorter; the other is narrower yet longer. This creates two distinct, staggered terraces on the garden side. A simple, elegant wooden platform visually anchors both halves, while also providing access to entrances and outdoor living areas on both the rear and sides. From the street, the building's continuous edge is articulated through varied window proportions that echo each family's unique floor plan. The entrance doors are discreetly positioned around the corners on the building's long sides.

Both units house shared living spaces—kitchen, dining, and living areas—on the ground floor, while bedrooms (for children and parents alike) and bathrooms occupy the upper level. Though tailored specifically to each family's needs, the rooms' proportions and arrangements differ noticeably, a distinction readable in the window designs. Both units share generously glazed corner windows overlooking the garden, flooding the living spaces with natural light. Throughout the project, exceptional attention was paid to material quality and meticulous craftsmanship, both inside and out.

www.architekt-reichwald.de

Photography Credits:

Leifpeter Reichwald

(Featured in CUBE Hamburg 01|22)