Situated at the edge of Vorderburg in Bavaria’s Allgäu region, the House on the Edge of the Village by Alpstein Architekten reinterprets the traditional single-ridge farmhouse. Its simple yet striking cubic form follows the natural slope of the landscape, seamlessly integrating into the village streetscape. The design pays homage to regional building traditions while embracing modernity. Upon entering at the basement level, the layout recalls the classic Allgäu farmhouse typology, with a bright staircase at its core. This central space organizes the home into two functional areas: an open-plan living, dining, and kitchen area with a gallery and a generous loggia leading to the garden, and a separate sleeping wing for parents and children, complete with private bathrooms. Large glazed surfaces frame views of the nearby church tower and the prominent summit of the Grünten.

The house stands on a robust in-situ concrete base that disappears into the hillside, grounding the structure while allowing the wooden upper levels to take center stage. Its façade, clad in untreated spruce shingles, will age gracefully, blending further with the natural surroundings over time. The construction prioritizes sustainability, utilizing wood-frame walls and a roof insulated with a mix of wood chips and clay for a breathable and energy-efficient envelope. The interior showcases a thoughtful interplay of local timber, with untreated spruce for ceilings and roof surfaces, larch for flooring, and solid ash for built-in furniture. This material palette ensures a warm, tactile living environment that remains true to its Alpine roots.

This project exemplifies a harmonious balance between vernacular inspiration and contemporary architectural expression. By reinterpreting the Allgäu farmhouse in a sustainable and minimalist manner, Alpstein Architekten has created a home that respects its cultural context while offering modern comfort. The House on the Edge of the Village not only responds to its picturesque setting but also reaffirms the enduring relevance of traditional building principles in contemporary Alpine design.

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