Nestled in a peaceful new development above the charming Rüderoth district of Engelskirchen, a contemporary family home has taken shape. The owners envisioned a bright, welcoming residence that balances private retreats with generous communal spaces. Bonfanti Architekten from Wiehl responded with a design that maximizes the hillside setting while maintaining a respectful visual presence—never dominating the landscape.

Originally the site of a school, this plot features a dramatic elevation change of more than 6.50 meters and borders a forest. To bridge this height difference, the architects conceived a three-story design: above a substantial concrete base—housing a double garage and central entry—sits a single-story pitched-roof home built using sustainable timber frame construction, characteristic of the region. Working within the maximum ridge height constraints of the development plan, the floors were strategically arranged so the expansive western-facing terrace aligns with the slope, while the central drive maintains a passable grade even in winter. The result? Unobstructed views of the valley from the upper floors, stretching beyond the neighboring rooftops. At 220 m², the house integrates seamlessly into the landscape rather than dominating it. The recessed basement plays a key role here, simultaneously providing sheltered access. The pitched roof and regionally typical vertical timber cladding further preserve the scale of the surrounding context. The living area centers on a single-flight staircase and a centrally positioned fireplace room—flexible in use thanks to sliding door systems that can separate it from the living room and kitchen as needed. The generous ceiling height, rising all the way to the ridge, allows warmth from the fireplace to circulate throughout the home. A substantial south-facing window wall floods the interior with daylight while framing sweeping views into the valley below.

The architect-designed open kitchen—complete with integrated pantry—and the dining zone flow onto an exterior terrace, with a covered lounge area tucked behind. This cluster enjoys both privacy and forest vistas through expansive sliding glass. Engineered as an Efficiency House 55, the residence meets exacting insulation standards, includes a heat pump and radiant floor heating throughout, with external blinds managing solar gain. Design and construction spanned two years. Despite pandemic disruptions, the team delivered a luminous sanctuary that honors the family's needs while sitting gracefully within its setting.

www.bonfanti-architekten.de

Photography:
Wolfgang Grümer
www.gruemerfoto.de

(Published in CUBE Cologne Bonn 04|24)