For this single-family residence, mm architekten from Hanover have ingeniously interlocked two austere volumes to create a compact geometric form. The result is an inviting entrance and a sheltered garden terrace. Respecting the building plan's requirements, the firm designed the upper floor substantially smaller than the ground level.

The home unfolds across approximately 190 m² of living space in a carefully composed sequence of interconnected rooms. Above the living and dining areas, a soaring two-story atrium rises to the roofline, framed by galleries and mezzanines that create visual continuity between levels. Floor-to-ceiling windows bathe the interior in natural light and establish a seamless dialogue with the garden. A striking fireplace—visible from both sides—anchors the horizontal transition between living and dining zones while emphasizing the vertical drama of the space. The entrance, staircase, and fireplace align to create a powerful sightline that amplifies the sense of openness. A freestanding kitchen island further enhances the flowing geometry of the floor plan. Warm interactions between plaster walls and wood accents are punctuated by strategically colored walls. Utility spaces behind the kitchen connect directly to the garage. From the street, a lower anthracite-colored volume intersects with the taller white cube, creating a clear focal point that marks the driveway and main entry. At the rear, the main house and garage frame a sheltered terrace—an inviting outdoor room.

Landscape architect Maxie Strauch designed the garden. Here, a pavilion serves as an architectural complement to the main house, creating flexible space for various uses—whether as a private retreat, workspace, or guest accommodation. The expansive interior features an integrated volume housing a bathroom and toilet, along with a small kitchenette, enabling this versatility. The structure is oriented toward the garden, with glazed front and side elevations that frame views of the pool positioned in sight line with the main house. An additional terrace offers covered seating by the water, while the natural stone privacy screen creates an ambiance reminiscent of a vacation retreat.

www.mm-architekten.de

Photography:
Thomas Drexel

(Published in CUBE Hamburg 02|24)