Multi-generational living is experiencing a renaissance. After decades of pursuing isolation—complete with a glut of single-unit apartments—people are choosing to reconnect. In Gauting, architect Thomas Metzner was approached by a couple planning to develop an inherited plot of land into a multi-generational home. There was one challenge: the grandmother's charming 1930s cottage stood on the site. Rather than demolish it, Metzner and the owners created an innovative solution—five households under one roof that would preserve the original cottage's character. The result is a two-story timber-frame structure (9 x 24 metres) stretching across the narrow lot, with the vintage cottage anchoring the street side and the new building set back, surrounded by generous garden space.

A concrete stairwell core provides structural stability, while the rest of the building embraces pure timber construction: post-and-beam walls paired with cross-laminated timber ceilings. This choice is both practical and poetic—wood naturally conveys warmth and brings people together. The prefabricated façade elements also proved efficient, dramatically shortening construction time. Clad in untreated larch, these surfaces will gracefully weather to a distinctive patina over the years.

Three generations across five households now call this place home. One ground-floor unit connects to the stairwell and doubles as a shared kitchen—the house's true heart. Here, across 45 square metres, the residents cook and dine together for celebrations and family gatherings. A guest apartment and spa-like bathroom with soaking tub complete this level. Universal design principles were carefully considered throughout; an elevator serves the upper floor. The finished attic, however, remains accessible only by stairs.

The original owners and their son occupy a 105 m² ground-floor unit with a private kitchen and ensuite shower. Four additional households inhabit the upper floor and attic in apartments ranging from 45 m² and up. A longtime family friend resides in the adjoining original cottage.

www.thomasmetzner.eu

Photography Credits:

Oliver Jaist
www.oliverjaist.com

(Published in CUBE Munich 04|21)