Building codes for the private street in this small development at Kaiserswerth's edge would typically permit two storeys plus a setback level. Yet Ricardo Ferreira Architects from Meerbusch convinced the owners that restraint—limiting the design to two storeys—would enhance the home's proportions and strengthen its relationship with the surrounding landscape. The result: a cubic, two-storey residence spanning 270 m² of living space on a 500 m² lot for a family of four. It features a full basement, a generous ground floor, and an upper level designed as a recessed storey.

The ground floor functions as a unified living zone, with a double garage extending northward. An inviting entrance flows naturally into the cloakroom and staircase. Southward, the open-plan living and generous kitchen-dining areas connect seamlessly to a covered terrace overlooking the garden. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors dissolve the boundary between interior and exterior. A striking three-sided glass fireplace—hovering above an illuminated floor recess—commands attention from every angle. Around the U-shaped staircase, two smaller voids interact with east-facing windows to cast dramatic light across the living spaces. The staircase itself remains deliberately open, framing views both outward to the landscape and inward across the layered living areas.

Upstairs, a gallery facing west connects three children's bedrooms with a shared bathroom. To the south, the parents' suite sits slightly apart, offering a bedroom, ensuite, and a walk-in closet with floor-to-ceiling storage. To preserve generous ceiling heights throughout the upper floor, the architects chose not to drop any ceilings. Two modest roof terraces take advantage of the setback design, framing views across the verdant surrounding landscape. A guest suite occupies the basement level, which enjoys natural light through a sloped opening. Beyond multiple storage areas and a wine cellar, the basement also provides a generous spa retreat for the family.

A restrained material and colour palette defines the home's interior character: warm oak parquet flooring plays beautifully against pristine white-rendered walls, ceilings, and floor-to-ceiling built-in cabinetry in matching tones. The parquet extends throughout, including into the bathrooms, where it's complemented by large-format porcelain tile. For climate control, the house relies on gas heating paired with mechanical ventilation. External roller blinds provide flexible shading.

www.rfcv.de

Photography:

Julia Vogel
www.julia-vogel.com

(Published in CUBE Düsseldorf 01|24)