House OE, Bregenz (AT)

Through its form and position on the site the l-shaped structure defines the entrance as well as the quality of the private living zones, which are shielded from outside views and separated from the main access road of the residential area. The house is accessed via an entrance court on basement level, which hosts a garage, basement and technical facilities, but also a secondary suite with a separate entrance. The generous porch is the first point of contact, encompassing all three floors as a central space connected by a single-flight staircase. The adjoining ground floor accommodates the kitchen and dining area with direct garden access and the living space facing the Bodensee. A fireplace and library built on an elevated platform allow for extra privacy. The dining and living areas are strictly separated from each other, emphasizing the different qualities of the surroundings: a wide-sweeping view from the secluded living area across the southeast Bodensee on the one side and the fully glazed dining area with garden access on the other side, representing a “verdant room” at the foot of the Pfaender hill.
The bathroom, dressing room, bedroom, children’s room and the guest room on the top floor constitute the more private zone of the residence. An elevator ensures barrier-free access to all three living areas. Walls and ceilings have been clad with untreated silver fir, while the floors contrast in dark doussie. Only the solid core comprising the utility shaft, elevator and a restroom for guests is rendered in white.

Client: private
Location: A-6900 Bregenz
Architecture: Dietrich | Untertrifaller
Project management: Michael Porath
Construction: 2002-2004
Area: 347 m²

Partner
structural engineering concrete: Mader & Flatz, Bregenz / structural engineering timber: Merz Kaufmann Partner, Dornbirn / HAVCR: Team GMI, Dornbirn / electronics: Hecht, Rankweil /// photos: © Ignacio