Sustainable house that adapts

Sustainable house that adapts

Jurek Brueggen and Sebastian Sailer of Kosa Architects have transformed a stone found in Werder into a home suitable for all seasons. Set on a hilltop, Haus Am See consists of the hollowed-out concrete body of the stone, in which openings have been cut, and a wooden extension above.

Unlike traditional energy-efficient homes that are isolated from their surroundings, this home adapts to the seasons, demonstrating how to conserve resources while living sustainably in connection with the environment. In winter, residents move to the ground floor, while in summer a patio and gazebo are added, doubling the footprint. A horizontal sliding window separates the pavilion from the garden in winter. By reducing the living space in winter, the architects managed to save on resources, construction and heating costs. The excess heat from the heated ground floor makes it possible to use the pavilion as a winter garden for the plants on the terrace during the cold season.

In contrast to the massive concrete base, the extension of the house is made of wood, while all building materials have remained visible. The extension was in contrast to the solid concrete in the timber construction – all building materials remained visible. Freestanding wooden partitions divide the interior space, while the light and flexible wooden gazebo has been placed on the roof and can be adjusted to the occupant’s needs. The windows can be folded out completely and enclose the interior only with three stiffening wall panels. A wooden staircase, which is also a bookcase, connects the two floors, while the open cavity of the stone is divided by free-standing wooden discs. Outside, a stone outdoor pool and riverside garden are accessed through large sash windows.

Sustainable house that adapts to all seasons - DigsDi
Airy Casa Mecano blends in with its tropical Costa setting.
Sustainable house that adapts to all seasons - DigsDi