HEWI Mag / References

Architecture on a slope: A residential building in dialogue with the topography

Architecture that combines earthiness and openness, supported by exposed concrete and wood and accentuated by the clear details of the HEWI 270 range.

In Wenden, in the centre of the southern Sauerland, a residential building was created that. rather than bypassing the challenge of the steep topography,makes it the basis of a precise architectural concept. “It was important to us that this house doesn’t look like it’s being imposed on the site, rather that it develops with it – layer by layer, level by level,” explains Florian Schönauer, partner at Schönauer²Architektur. “Hang zum Hang” is a project that shows in a remarkable way how landscape, construction and materiality can be woven into an atmospheric whole. The choice of the HEWI 270 range also fits perfectly into this concept: With its clear style, it blends seamlessly into the architecture and reinforces the combination of materiality, precision and reduction.

The property is located at the transition from an established village structure to an open landscape. Here, the terrain rises steeply, creating a component that is as complex as it is inspiring. Instead of levelling the terrain, the architecture responds to the existing topography: Two solid base storeys made of exposed concrete absorb the differences in height, accommodate circulation and functional spaces and convey a sense of earthiness and calm with their introverted presence. On top of this, two lighter storeys in a solid cross-laminated timber (CLT) construction open up to the surroundings. “It’s not about opposing the landscape, rather about absorbing its power,” explains Schönauer. This creates a clear spatial graduation: restrained and protected at the bottom, open, bright and expansive at the top.

Between solidity and lightness

The architectural concept is based on the dialogue of the materials. Exposed concrete as a foundation is durable, load-bearing and robust. This contrasts with the warm wood of the upper floors, which symbolises lightness, openness and a closeness to real, everyday life. “These contrasts are not a contradiction: they are the real strength of the house,” emphasises Schönauer. In this interplay, an architecture unfolds that radiates both solidity and transparency. Large-format glass panes, precisely positioned vistas and a window seat with a panoramic view interweave the interior closely with the landscape. Inside and outside form a flowing continuum

Precision in detail

The logic of the building structure continues inside. The basement accommodates private areas of retreat, bedrooms and studies as well as a small sauna area. It is introverted, quiet and characterised by restrained materials such as light wood, exposed concrete and glass. Above this, the ground floor opens up into a spacious living room and lounge. A black kitchen island and a green tiled stove form the centre of communal living. Sliding doors allow the dining and living areas to be extended directly into the garden, while focused visual axes intensify the connection to the landscape.

The details are also consistently integrated into this clear spatial structure. The window and door furniture from the HEWI 270 range in black matt sets subtle but striking accents. “We chose HEWI because the hardware radiates calm with its reduced style and at the same time emphasises the materiality of wood and exposed concrete,” explains Schönauer. “They are understated but precise – exactly what we were looking for.” The hardware is particularly effective in combination with open-pored surfaces and solid components: They blend discreetly into the architecture and at the same time visibly enhance it in detail.

Sustainability as an attitude

Sustainability was a conceptual basis and not just an additional aspiration. Concrete and wood enter into a constructive dialogue. The concrete base takes on permanent ground-contact and load-bearing tasks, while the lighter timber storeys enable efficient prefabrication, flexibility and a cosy indoor climate. A heat pump, panel heating and controlled ventilation complete the concept. “For us, sustainability doesn’t mean meeting standards in the short term. Rather, it means focusing on durability and material compatibility,” summarises Schönauer. “We wanted to create a house that is built with integrity – and that will of course still function in 30 years’ time.”

A house as part of the location

“Hang zum Hang” is an architecture that was developed out of the location and at the same time reinterprets it. Solid and light, introverted and open – the house thrives on the interplay it keeps in balance. In detail and as a whole, an attitude is evident that does not rely on spectacular gestures, but rather on the precise formulation of space, material and atmosphere. The integration of the HEWI hardware also follows this self-perception: Here, architecture is thought through down to the last detail – reduced, clear, timeless. The result is a house that is not just built, but also interwoven into the location. “It’s a house that carries – architecturally, atmospherically, emotionally,” says Schönauer.