Modern living—characterized by spacious, flowing interiors—tops most homeowners' wish lists. Yet in established residential neighborhoods, building codes often stand in the way, whether through rigid envelope restrictions or strict design guidelines. For a single-family home designed by Klaus Mäs Architects in a historic residential district in Leverkusen, these regulations proved particularly constraining.

Close collaboration with the clients and careful study of the building restrictions led to a compelling design strategy: two complementary volumes working in concert. A clearly articulated residential block—gabled roof facing the street—extends into a single-story functional wing that screens the garden and pool from public view. A subtle setback of this wing defines a striking entrance threshold, establishing a semi-public transition. Delicate wooden louvers—deployed throughout the house as a unifying design gesture—accentuate this threshold and reinforce the project's visual coherence. The entrance vestibule, generous and lined with cloakroom storage, immediately frames a view through to the covered terrace and garden beyond. This circulation naturally branches to the street-facing office (with garden access) and the garage (served through an intermediate storage zone). Opposite the vestibule sits a central cubic volume that houses a guest WC, additional storage, and vertical circulation—connecting basement, ground, and upper floors. The staircase dissolves into an expansive living zone where kitchen, dining, and living spaces merge fluidly. The living area itself, anchored by a dramatic floor-to-ceiling glazed slider toward the garden, is subtly demarcated from the kitchen and dining areas by a room-defining fireplace. The kitchen, recessed into solid walls, orients toward the street. Upstairs, two children's bedrooms share one bath and face the street, while the master suite—with bedroom, walk-in closet, and ensuite—opens fully to the garden and pool.

www.klausmaes.de

Photography:
Philip Kistner
www.philipkistner.com

(Published in CUBE Cologne 02|25)