House CCB / Ralph Germann architectes

House CCB / Ralph Germann architectes - Interior Photography, ShelvingHouse CCB / Ralph Germann architectes - Interior Photography, Brick, BeamHouse CCB / Ralph Germann architectes - Interior PhotographyHouse CCB / Ralph Germann architectes - Exterior Photography, ChairHouse CCB / Ralph Germann architectes - More Images+ 16

More SpecsLess Specs
House CCB / Ralph Germann architectes - Exterior Photography
© Lionel Henriod

Text description provided by the architects. In the Swiss Alps, architect Ralph Germann turns a traditional barn into a luminous residence. Behind the monumental stone walls that have remained intact, he envisions a bright interior bathed in natural light.

House CCB / Ralph Germann architectes - Interior Photography
© Lionel Henriod
House CCB / Ralph Germann architectes - Image 20 of 21
Plan - Ground floor
House CCB / Ralph Germann architectes - Interior Photography, Kitchen, Table, Countertop, Chair, Beam
© Lionel Henriod

At first, the massive 1854 building impresses. It bears the marks of time: four generations have seen it evolved from hay barn to stable, and then to wine storage. In 1950, a wooden extension is added to the family property. As a new chapter opens, the owner and architect agree: the impressive stone facade has to be preserved.

House CCB / Ralph Germann architectes - Interior Photography, Door, Table, Chair
© Lionel Henriod
House CCB / Ralph Germann architectes - Exterior Photography, Chair
© Lionel Henriod

Highlighting the mineral character of the original construction, Ralph Germann plays with volumes, giving them a new perspective. In this stunning stone shell, he carefully places a wooden and glass cube and turns it into a contemporary living space. The breathtaking view on the freshly brushed timber frame confers to the interior a timeless atmosphere.

House CCB / Ralph Germann architectes - Interior Photography, Shelving
© Lionel Henriod

From the entrance hall, a concrete staircase leads to the upper floor, with direct access to the main room and the terrace. In perfect balance between the two eras, the minimalist allure of the new construction enhances the raw aspect of the old building. Giving a new life to the place and the material, the architect uses the wooden boards of the old barn to design bespoke furniture for the kitchen and the bedroom. In one of the bookshelves, a movable panel unveils an opening between the living room and the bathroom to enjoy a relaxing bath with a view of the fireplace.

House CCB / Ralph Germann architectes - Exterior Photography, Column
© Lionel Henriod

Throughout the day and the year, natural light shapes the space according to the rhythm of nature. In addition to the original narrow windows of the barn, four loopholes are pierced in the roof in order to bring zenithal light in. The subtle light is thought down to the smallest detail. Even the setting sun is beautifully filtered by a carved shutter. “There is something musical. The light punctuates the space, vibrates in crescendo.", appreciates the owner.

House CCB / Ralph Germann architectes - Interior Photography
© Lionel Henriod

Project gallery

See allShow less
About this office
Cite: "House CCB / Ralph Germann architectes" 23 May 2021. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/961946/house-ccb-ralph-germann-architectes> ISSN 0719-8884

© Lionel Henriod

瑞士CCB住宅,展现透光特质 / Ralph Germann architectes

You've started following your first account!

Did you know?

You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.