001 Jahreszeitenhaus


Werder (Havel)

2015-2018

Sebastian Saller
und Jurek Brüggen

The Jahreszeitenhaus is nestled on a slope, surrounded by four houses of contrasting architectural styles. Designed to blend seamlessly into its environment, the house tells the story of a stone found in situ, transformed into a living space. This stone-like form takes the shape of a hollo1wed-out concrete structure, with carefully placed openings cut into its solid surface. Complementing this robust concrete core, the rest of the building is crafted from wood, creating a striking contrast between the materials.

Inside, free-standing wooden partition walls divide the spaces, offering flexibility and warmth. A central wooden staircase, which doubles as a bookshelf, connects the two floors. On the roof, a wooden pavilion extends the living space, offering a serene vantage point over the property. Large sliding doors on the garden level open onto a stone-lined outdoor pool and a garden that gently slopes down toward the river.

The Jahreszeitenhaus introduces an innovative approach to sustainable living, where the house adapts to the changing seasons. In winter, the residents retreat to the garden floor, a well-insulated space that remains cozy and efficient. During the summer, the living area expands, with the rooftop pavilion becoming an integral part of the home. Folding doors allow the pavilion to open completely in warmer months, while a horizontal sliding window separates it from the garden level during winter. This seasonal approach conserves energy and reduces costs by condensing the home's footprint in colder months.

The house leverages natural insulation, with its northern, eastern, and western sides embedded in the slope, creating a protective earth layer. Heat rising from the garden level warms the pavilion in winter, enabling it to function as a conservatory for plants. When closed, this unheated pavilion adds an extra layer of insulation to the lower level.

By reviving the ancient practice of seasonal living, the Jahreszeitenhaus offers a modern interpretation of ecological architecture. Unlike conventional energy-saving homes that isolate themselves from the environment, this design fosters a dynamic and harmonious relationship with nature, promoting sustainable living in tune with the rhythms of the seasons.

in collaboration with Sebastian Sailer, Kosa Architekten



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