Passivhausanlage Apartments / D O R N E R \ M A T T  Architects
© Courtesy of D O R N E R \ M A T T  Architects

The Passivhausanlage Apartments in St. Gallenkrich, designed by D O R N E R \ M A T T Architects, are a stunning example of sustainable and energy-efficient building design. Located in a shadowy valley, the project features unique two-story voids measuring 2.5 x 2.5 meters designed to capture and distribute natural light throughout the apartments.

The use of these voids, along with the building’s strict adherence to the Passivhaus standard, results in a high level of energy efficiency and comfort for occupants. The Passivhaus standard, which focuses on reducing a building’s energy consumption through passive means such as high insulation values, airtight construction, and energy-efficient windows, results in buildings that require minimal heating and cooling, even in extreme weather conditions.

Passivhausanlage Apartments Technical Information

The rooms of the apartments in the “magic cube“ overlap and interlock across the storeys around a central supply core. The high flexibility of the floor plans result from a modular development concept. No apartment is alike and, if in need, one can lend a room to another. It’s like playing with a Rubik’s cube – but the other way round.

– D O R N E R \ M A T T  Architects

Passivhausanlage Apartments Photographs

Passivhausanlage Apartments / D O R N E R \ M A T T  Architects
© Courtesy of D O R N E R \ M A T T  Architects
Passivhausanlage Apartments / D O R N E R \ M A T T  Architects
© Courtesy of D O R N E R \ M A T T  Architects
Passivhausanlage Apartments / D O R N E R \ M A T T  Architects
© Courtesy of D O R N E R \ M A T T  Architects
Passivhausanlage Apartments / D O R N E R \ M A T T  Architects
© Courtesy of D O R N E R \ M A T T  Architects
Passivhausanlage Apartments / D O R N E R \ M A T T  Architects
© Courtesy of D O R N E R \ M A T T  Architects
Passivhausanlage Apartments / D O R N E R \ M A T T  Architects
© Courtesy of D O R N E R \ M A T T  Architects
Passivhausanlage Apartments / D O R N E R \ M A T T  Architects
© Courtesy of D O R N E R \ M A T T  Architects

Passivhausanlage Apartments description by the Architects

In St.Gallenkirch, a village in Montafon/Vorarlberg, rural Austria, the settlements were built in the shadowy valley because the farmers needed the sunny, south-facing slopes for their cattle.

A strategy to save resources and cost-effectiveness allows new ways to catch the light. Nearly every apartment has a two-story void, measuring 2.5 by 2.5 meters. They expand the apartment outwards and let the sun and nature to enter into the interior and develop a great view of the landscape.

“Habitation means to experience a state of protected weakness,” according to Peter Sloterdijk. In this sense, a good home is the architectural equivalent of love – it allows you to be weak inside without, therefore, lapsing into an exaggerated pose.”

The rooms of the apartments in the “magic cube “overlap and interlock across the stories around a central supply core. The high flexibility of the floor plans results from a modular development concept. No apartment is alike, and if in need, one can lend a room to another. It’s like playing with a Rubik’s cube – but the other way round. The goal is not only spatial purity but the highest possible diversity.

Passivhausanlage Apartments Plans

Passivhausanlage Apartments / D O R N E R \ M A T T  Architects
© Courtesy of D O R N E R \ M A T T  Architects
Passivhausanlage Apartments / D O R N E R \ M A T T  Architects
© Courtesy of D O R N E R \ M A T T  Architects
Passivhausanlage Apartments / D O R N E R \ M A T T  Architects
© Courtesy of D O R N E R \ M A T T  Architects

About D O R N E R \ M A T T

D O R N E R \ M A T T Architects is an architecture firm based in Switzerland. The firm was founded by architects Reto Dornier and Martin Matt and has established a reputation for creating innovative and sustainable buildings. The firm’s portfolio includes a wide range of building types, including residential, commercial, cultural, and public facilities.

D O R N E R \ M A T T Architects is known for their commitment to sustainable and responsible building design. The firm often incorporates passive design strategies and cutting-edge energy-saving technologies into their projects to minimize their environmental impact. Their projects are characterized by an attention to detail, a focus on functionality and livability, and an emphasis on using natural light and ventilation to create healthy and comfortable living spaces.

Other Works from D O R N E R \ M A T T Architects

  1. Construction: Rhomberg Bau GmbH, L 
  2. Structural consultant: Mader Flatz
  3. Project Manager: DI Isabelle Groll