A south sloping site at the edge of the woods with a stunning view: it was a good decision decades ago to build a traditional mansion with a tent roof in this park-like setting. Altered needs and a change of generations called for compaction. Despite the obligatory though considerable distance from the woodlands, a new concept allowed for the establishment of three additional single-family houses on the ascending terrain, whose spacious design pays homage to the site while keeping a sufficient distance between the buildings and maintaining an unobstructed view.

The polygonal building lines suggested the use of irregular, polyhedrally shaped structures, underpinning their autonomy and individual expression. This reflects the new developments in contemporary architecture, the surfaces of the entire volume, i.e. the walls and roof are attached to the same importance, so that the buildings resembling huge boulders, rest between the trees of the old park. The sporadic openings put this first impression into perspective and dark surfaces integrate them into the neighboring woodland.

This architecture is characterized by a certain kind of understatement, which definitely reflects the tradition of the nearby city. The spacious underground garage allows vehicle access to all four houses as well as a direct underground access.

The overground garden paths, smoothly integrated into the topography, lead the way to the well-protected front doors. Guest parking lots can be found along the narrow access road. A terrace framed by a low natural stonewall is allocated to each of the main residential floors; the equally spacious garden stretches all the way to the edge of the woods.

The interior design of the single-family houses is a continuation of their individual exterior design. An elevator provides unhindered access to all floors. The fairly autonomous units on the lower ground floors with their fenestrated south facades are suited for several uses: multigenerational living, staff flats, au pair or student rooms as well as artist studios and offices seem feasible. The upper floors are appropriately equipped with bathrooms. The spacious common rooms feature an attractive, individual configuration and the large windows are a celebration of the magnificent view. The upper floors provide enough space for home offices and for privacy in order to ensure an undisturbed family life. Guest rooms provide all modern conveniences.

(Walter Zschokke, 2008)