Craft meets complexity

After generations of operation, the Rüscher family’s woodworking business outgrew its former spaces. With production processes becoming increasingly intricate and safety regulations more demanding, makeshift workshops in stables and garages could no longer meet modern standards. The solution came with the construction of a new carpentry workshop in Schnepfau, a village in Austria’s Bregenzerwald. The result is a spacious, precise, and future-proof workplace that brings together production, administration, and exhibition under one unified roof.

A bold yet respectful presence

Positioned on the green edge of the village, the new building aligns itself with the length of the Kanisfluh mountain range, confidently asserting its function without overwhelming its surroundings. A finely structured wooden facade, low profile, and restrained height ensure the architecture blends harmoniously into the Alpine setting. Openings in the facade are carefully placed to frame striking views of the landscape, while skylights in the production hall ensure uniform, glare-free lighting that supports craftsmanship and focus.

Functionality through design

Material and personnel logistics are concentrated along the east facade, freeing the other sides from operational demands. The internal program is clearly defined and highly adaptable: the machine hall features double-height spaces for long-term flexibility, while the northern section of the building is divided into two levels, housing finishing workshops below and administrative areas above. A central courtyard on the upper floor enhances daylight and transparency, supporting a high-quality work environment for both clients and employees.

An architecture of continuity and clarity

Structural beech trusses enable wide, open spans in the production hall, creating visual continuity between the timber interior and the surrounding landscape. The showroom, which faces the village centre, becomes a communicative gesture—showcasing both material and method. Offices overlook the workshop, reinforcing the connection between design and making. With its clear logic, generous spatial flow, and high construction quality, the Rüscher workshop embodies a contemporary vision of craftsmanship deeply rooted in place.

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