At first glance, the building's distinctive form appears unconventional—yet it tells a story of thoughtful adaptation. To comply with the local building regulations established in 1935, Frey Architects refined their original design, ensuring the new structure would respect the charming, fine-grained character of its historic surroundings. The result is a narrow, restrained street-facing elevation that integrates seamlessly into this heterogeneous context without disappearing into it. A smooth façade and precisely aligned windows give the building quiet presence and definition. Where the house truly opens up is toward the garden, framing an impressive view across the Ramsbach Valley—a vista the homeowners can savor year-round from their expansive larch-decked terrace, held gently by a subtle railing. A single staircase descends from the entrance, branching toward both the elevated terrace and the garden below.

The ground floor flows with the site's gentle slope. From the living area's bay window, three steps descend into the dining zone and open kitchen beyond, where birch wood accents enhance the sense of spaciousness. An open fireplace anchors the space, its presence felt on two sides. Cast concrete flooring and a raw concrete ceiling create deliberate textural contrast—a robust materiality set against the refined precision of custom cabinetry and spruce window frames. A light timber staircase guides the eye upward to the equally open upper floor. The floor plan's flexibility allows for partitions if needed—say, to define a guest wing—yet the rooms remain generously glazed toward the garden. Space flows continuously through a void to the attic, where a dressing area, open bathroom, and bedroom unfold in sequence, each offering that same compelling valley outlook. Climate control is achieved through an internal heat pump paired with centralized ventilation—a quiet, balanced solution for year-round comfort.

www.freyarchitekten.de

Photography:
Sebastian Schels
www.schels.net

(Featured in CUBE Stuttgart 01|25)