Kronbühl Residence / Oppenheim Architecture
Text description provided by the architects. The location of the intimate Kronbühl residence is in a quiet neighbourhood, overlooking the German part of Lake Constance, between a beautiful sunflower farm and an apple orchard that runs along the entire back of the plot. The compact plot has been improved by designing a three storey house for our client.
The berm covering the lower level provides an expansive lush garden that blends with the surrounding landscape. By fixing the least volume in the terrain, the leisure spaces inside, the garden, the pool and the trees outside develop a natural synergy. The basement has many programs – garage, wine cellar, recreation room, wellness space and sauna. The design intent of the botanical base reduces the appearance of the three-storey house, providing a considerate gesture to the manner of the adjacent context.
In contrast to the natural base, the middle level is composed of multiple volumes finished in forged concrete, creating open spaces for living spaces in between. The glass façades are designed as large transparent panels that fill the gaps between the concrete volumes, framing the different views of the lake and fields. In order to achieve maximum transparency and an unobstructed view of the lake, the window panels slide into a hidden pocket within one of the concrete volumes. This generous openness creates a visual dialogue between the inside and the outside.
The upper wooden volume takes its triangular shape from the three main views of the house – the lake, the sunflower field, and the apple orchard. The triangular shape cantilevers over the concrete volumes, with the master bedroom and its corner window looking out over the enchanting sunsets of Lake Constance. The wooden fins that wrap around the facade respect and enhance the natural conditions of the site including views, sun protection and privacy. The Kronbühl Residence has its own distinct identity compared to the buildings around it. Formed in close relationship with the fields around it, it has a calm and confident presence within its neighborhood.
(tags for translation)architecture