An der Achalm

The location on a steep south-facing slope required an access to the house from the public road running below to the site situated about 12 metres higher. These conditions inspired the idea of embedding a mountain pass road into the site, which serves both as a drive and a footpath. At the top end, one reaches a generous piazza, which is framed by low walls. At this point, the site already offers magnificent views to the valley and to the slopes on the opposite side. One can even see the Schönberg Tower, which was built according to plans by Theodor Fischer in 1905 at the Albtrauf in the neighbouring town of Pfullingen. The powerful appearance of the tower with two white soaring vertical sections partly inspired the basic idea for the residence. The white cubes of the “Haus an der Achalm” were, however, turned through 90 degrees and thus turned into a celebration of the horizontal. The location on a steep slope as well as the associated clear orientation, that is the lining up of all living areas and finally the spreading out of the terraces on the sunny side affording great views, determines the design concept. Only the tower on the right hand side of the entrance roots the building at this location. Together with the outdoor stairs, it makes a stand against the rhythm of the topography and emphasises the entrance to the house. All secondary functions are accommodated on the entrance level. The rooms for guests are located on the eastern side, whilst residents and guests reach the spa area by walking west past the secondary rooms and the office. A mostly roofed loggia is located in front of the spa, which directly adjoins the sun terrace and the pool. All rooms used for daily life are located on the top level. The projecting eastern wing facing the valley accommodates the private areas such as bedrooms, walk-in closets, dressing room and bathroom. The laundry and utility room located here reduces the distances to be covered. The hall with a void and a staircase connects this part of the building with the kitchen and dining area in the western section. The complete corner of the adjoining living room opens up towards the terrace, which just as the living room forms an introverted, enclosed space on the northern side.