Elevated terrain in the heart of the Hülser Berg nature reserve, surrounded by mature trees—these were the initial parameters for a villa that deliberately sets a geometric counterpoint to the lush landscape. Through carefully composed sight lines and two open atriums, Peter Bastian Architekten create a dynamic dialogue between architecture and nature—a deliberate reference to a neighboring modern landmark and Krefeld's important Mies van der Rohe legacy.

The family's living and recreational spaces occupy the entire ground floor, while the smaller basement level houses the main entrance beside an integrated garage and additional utility, storage, and service rooms. The sloped site and stepped building design allow the east facade of the basement to remain largely open, ensuring optimal natural light for the entrance hall and the adjoining staircase. Two opposing atriums define the ground floor layout. Each opens to the exterior on one side, with residential spaces grouped around them on the others. The larger atrium faces south with views across the sloping landscape. A centrally positioned reflecting pool, framed by exposed concrete edging, anchors the light court. A planted bed of ornamental grasses bordered by bench seating groups to the side, creating a transition to the natural slope beyond. Flooring in Kirchheim shell limestone harmonizes beautifully with exposed concrete and masonry tones. The flooring extends seamlessly into bathrooms and kitchens, reinforcing the desired continuum between interior and exterior space. The smaller atrium contrasts with its representative poolside counterpart through its more intimate character—accessible only from within the building, not directly from outside. The structure is defined by concrete construction penetrated by two chimney stacks, both crafted from dark long-format masonry units. To achieve the building's monolithic expression, interior insulation was employed throughout. Floor-to-ceiling windows, sliding elements, and aluminum panels articulate the facades, creating a dynamic interplay of transparent and solid surfaces. The design generates expansive views and focused sight lines—into both atriums, toward the surrounding woodland, and across a naturally landscaped pond. Shading is provided by the overhanging roof. A particularly ingenious feature: flexible operable walls inside, such as those positioned before the glass facades in the living room facing east and south. By providing privacy screens, they create sheltered private zones within the otherwise open and expansive living space. Interior finishes are limited to a few carefully coordinated materials: dark smoked oak parquet paired with custom-made built-in cabinetry in consistent white creates an elegant lightness throughout.

www.bastian-architekten.de

Living area: 432 m²
Site size: 5,000 m²
Construction period: 24 months
Energy concept: Ground-source heat pump

Photography Credits:

Roland Borgmann
www.rolandborgmann.com

(Published in CUBE Düsseldorf 03|21)