The impressive property is located in a nature reserve near Düsseldorf. So we had to coordinate every step with the building authorities, the interventions were significant: First, we removed the roof from the upper floor and replaced it with a flat roof. The 2.5 m lower building is now less present in the environment, which is characterized by forest and meadow areas. Under the existing building, we have created a swimming pool with ancillary rooms and a garage, without changing the ground floor plan. All walls were preserved and were statically or structurally strengthened. 

 

The interior is reduced and brightly designed and flooded with light. The elegant floor is plain and slightly reflective, but non-slip in the pool area. Hinged and sliding doors, walls and fixtures are flush and can be used as room dividers if required. The high-quality Cero glazing can be pushed completely into the side parking pockets. The sliding sashes are therefore not in the way and even become invisible. Circumferential metal bands structure the stacked floors and accommodate technical installations: vertical blinds, horizontal shading, self-drainage of the glass surfaces including exit functions to the terraces.

 

The result is a cubic and classically cut volume with a surrounding glass facade made of transparent and semi-transparent fields. Even if its foundations are still standing: the country villa has become a timeless and sustainable building.