Querkopf Architects envisioned this modern villa as a stone-carved sculpture—one that boldly reimagines the rules of residential design to create an incomparable living experience nestled in nature. A striking study in contrasts, the innovative concrete villa embraces purist principles while showcasing distinctive character. Perched on a natural stone foundation, it stands as a beacon of contemporary design. Here, nature and architecture exist in perfect harmony. The house is entirely oriented toward the forest, with expansive glass walls flooding the interiors with light and framing endless views of the verdant landscape. The architects carefully crafted the façade in dialogue with its surroundings—a decision that allows the building to age gracefully, its surface enriched by moss, foliage, and the patina of time. Situated on an almost 2,400 m² woodland plot near Hamburg, Villa Neo is a private sanctuary. Nestled against the hillside and shielded from the street, it offers residents an exceptional degree of privacy and security—a peaceful retreat entirely their own.

An open floor plan amplifies the ground level's spacious feel. The main entrance leads seamlessly into the designer kitchen, which connects directly to a vast living and dining zone framed by floor-to-ceiling glass. A sculptural, wood-wrapped staircase ascends through a dramatic atrium to the upper floor, where a library, bedrooms, and bathrooms await. Custom built-in wardrobes, textured pebble walls, and floor-spanning mirror installations add refined touches that elevate the atmosphere. Expansive windows in the bedrooms and home office frame stunning vistas of gardens and forest. The basement houses a generous guest suite, hobby room, and a spa-inspired bathroom featuring a rainfall shower. Four garage spaces occupy this level for easy access from the living areas. Outside, the villa's striking landscaping creates abundant space for relaxation across more than 960 m² of manicured lawn. The 170 m² south-facing terrace is ideal for gatherings and outdoor living. A turquoise infinity pool refreshes on warm days, while a luxurious hot tub provides warmth when temperatures drop.

Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the living spaces with natural light and open the view toward the surrounding landscape. A striking architectural feature—oversized steel louvers spanning the glass—visually connects the lower and upper levels. As daylight fades, carefully curated designer lighting casts a warm, atmospheric glow throughout the rooms, complemented by bespoke furnishings and a modern fireplace to create an inviting sanctuary of comfort and warmth.

Villa Neo stands as a singular work of art born from a powerful vision. Merging Bauhaus minimalism with brutalist strength, it projects confidence and shelter externally while radiating elegance, openness, and serenity within. For its inhabitants, it's an oasis—a personal sanctuary. The architects reflect: "Whether day or night, viewed from inside or outside—Villa Neo is an architectural triumph at every moment and from every angle. We are honored to have brought this vision to life without compromise."

Plot size: 2,379 m²
Construction period: 16 months
Construction method: double-shell in-situ concrete with core insulation; frameless sliding windows

www.querkopf-architekten.de

Photography:
Frank Löschke
www.liquid-photography.com

(Originally published in CUBE Hamburg 04|19)