Open to Nature
An angular family home that deliberately turns inward, resisting the pull of distant views
The challenge for Baurmann.Dürr Architects was clear: create a home on a prominent site that offers both intimate refuge and expansive living. Their answer: a sculptural L-shaped form that sits boldly yet respectfully within the landscape. Rather than gazing outward toward the Rhine valley like its neighbors, this house deliberately turns inward, embracing a sheltered landscape sanctuary. The result is a residence that grants its inhabitants maximum privacy and freedom.
From the street, the design's distinctive character reveals itself immediately. The façade speaks in restrained gestures, almost suggesting a bungalow. Yet step inside, and the house unfolds with surprising depth: a generous staircase orchestrates the different levels, choreographing compelling spatial relationships. Shifting floor heights and carefully orchestrated light create a dynamic, ever-changing atmosphere. The building feels grounded—both conceptually and structurally. Solid construction anchors it firmly to the hillside slope. Materials reinforce this rational design philosophy: natural stone, oak flooring, crisp white plaster, and abundant light flooding through expansive glazing. Vertical timber slats shade the first-floor pergola, creating a visual echo of the wooden-framed floor-to-ceiling windows and the timber-lined entry with garage. Within the L-shape's inner angle sits a protected outdoor room, framed by lush vegetation. Generously proportioned bathrooms, bespoke built-ins, and smartly integrated storage maximize every square meter, streamlining daily life. Recessed and indirect lighting plays against the white walls, amplifying brightness throughout the home.
Every technical detail was equally well-considered. Underfloor heating paired with a heat pump maintains consistent warmth without temperature swings. The entire roof was designed to house photovoltaic panels. The family took a principled approach to quality and local sourcing—each trade was contracted exclusively to regional specialists, a commitment evident in the home's meticulous craftsmanship. After one year of planning and one year of construction, the five-member family moved into their new 400 m² home, a refined and understated space designed to embrace life in all its diversity.
Photography:
Swen Carlin
www.swencarlin.com
Onuk
www.onuk.de
(Featured in CUBE Stuttgart 01|25)
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