A quiet retreat by the roadside

In the Sebi district of Niederndorf, this timber house redefines how architecture can create calm in a busy setting. Located near a main road to the north, the building turns inward, shielding itself from noise and visual disturbance. Conceived as a courtyard house, it opens up instead to the south, embracing the more tranquil side of its surroundings. The design ensures privacy without isolation, offering a quiet refuge in the heart of the village.

An adaptable core

At the centre of the house lies a green courtyard, fully enclosed by the living spaces that surround it. This sheltered outdoor area can be opened or closed using wooden sliding panels, creating a flexible zone that evolves with the seasons. On sunny days, it becomes an open-air extension of the home; when needed, it transforms into a secluded interior garden. The courtyard becomes both a visual and functional anchor, linking all rooms through light, air, and greenery.

Living spaces on two levels

The interior layout promotes an easy, open style of living. The ground floor contains a spacious, open-plan area where cooking, dining, and relaxing merge seamlessly. Large openings and sightlines enhance the connection between inside and outside, especially toward the courtyard. The bedrooms are placed on the upper floor for added privacy. Together, the arrangement supports both communal life and quiet retreat, tailored to the rhythms of everyday living.

Material warmth and performance

Built from highly insulated timber, the structure prioritizes energy efficiency while offering a warm, tactile quality. The facade is clad in untreated fir, which will naturally weather over time, enhancing the house’s quiet presence in its Alpine setting. The use of natural materials, combined with thoughtful spatial planning, results in a home that feels grounded and enduring—designed not only to perform, but to age gracefully alongside its residents.

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