Innovative Wandering House Concept by Lionel Ballmer Redefines Architecture

Located on the western edge of Baar, the new architectural marvel, The Wandering House, designed by Lionel Ballmer architectes, stands as a testament to innovative design and environmental consciousness.

This project involves transforming an existing family barn into a small residential house while introducing a new structure that complements the barn. The design cleverly utilizes the barn’s ground floor as a cellar and its first floor as a sheltered reception area, creating a harmonious dialogue between the old and the new.

This unique approach not only preserves the barn’s nobility but also minimizes intervention on the vegetated site, thereby maintaining the ecosystem and biodiversity.

The house, built with cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels and local larch wood windows, embodies a seamless blend of past and present, offering adaptable and interchangeable spaces for modern living. For more information, visit the original article.

Design Philosophy and Concept

The Wandering House is a prime example of how contemporary architecture can respect and enhance historical structures.

The project began with the intention of transforming an existing family barn into a small residential house. However, the barn’s limited space necessitated the construction of a new house to the north, effectively densifying the plot.

This new structure allows the barn to serve as a cellar and reception area, creating a private garden between the two buildings. This layout fosters a dialogue between the old barn and the new house, enhancing the overall aesthetic and functional value of the property.

Innovative Use of Space

The design of The Wandering House is marked by its innovative use of space. The house does not anchor itself to the plot but rather floats on the land.

This design choice prevents massive artificialization of the ground, preserving the site’s ecosystem and biodiversity. The new construction, nestled between residential houses to the north and barns to the south, asserts its contemporary form while echoing the traditional Valaisan houses.

The structure, made of charred wood, mimics the beams and sunburnt planks of yesteryear, sitting on a mineral base of recycled concrete.

Material and Environmental Considerations

The Wandering House is constructed using environmentally sustainable materials.

The entire structure, including the walls, floors, and roof, is made of cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels of regionally grown spruce. The windows are made from local larch wood, further emphasizing the project’s commitment to using local materials.

Additionally, the house features photovoltaic panels and a rainwater collection basin, adhering to current environmental standards and concerns.

Sustainable Design

The house’s design not only minimizes its environmental footprint but also enhances its sustainability.

The use of CLT panels and local larch wood windows reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation and material production. The photovoltaic panels provide renewable energy, while the rainwater collection basin ensures efficient water use.

These features make The Wandering House a model of sustainable design.

Adaptable Living Spaces

The interior of The Wandering House is designed to be adaptable and interchangeable, depending on the time of day and the number of inhabitants.

The spaces are organized around a service and circulation core, with living areas at each end opening onto the mountains, the garden, or the barn through large sliding glass windows. This design strengthens the connection between the past and present, creating a timeless living environment.

Versatile Interior Design

The south side of the house features a three-level area containing a living room, dining room, kitchen, and office, allowing for constant visual contact between all occupants.

To the north, the outdoor shelter is versatile, accommodating either a car or providing a space protected from the rain for playing or sharing meals. This versatility ensures that the house can adapt to the changing needs of its inhabitants.

Architectural Significance

The Wandering House stands as a significant contribution to contemporary architecture.

Its design respects and enhances historical structures, while its use of sustainable materials and innovative design solutions sets a new standard for environmentally conscious architecture. The project’s ability to blend past and present, create adaptable living spaces, and minimize its environmental footprint makes it a noteworthy example of modern architectural practice.

A Harmonious Blend of Old and New

The dialogue between the old barn and the new house creates a harmonious blend of old and new.

The barn’s ground floor serves as a cellar, while its first floor functions as a sheltered reception area. This layout not only preserves the barn’s nobility but also enhances its functionality.

The new house, with its contemporary form and traditional materials, complements the barn and creates a cohesive architectural ensemble.

Conclusion

The Wandering House by Lionel Ballmer architectes is a remarkable example of how contemporary architecture can respect and enhance historical structures while adhering to environmental standards.

The project’s innovative use of space, sustainable materials, and adaptable living spaces set a new standard for environmentally conscious design.

By blending past and present, The Wandering House creates a timeless living environment that harmonizes with its natural surroundings.

For more details on this architectural marvel, visit the original article.