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
- Architects : D O R N E R \ M A T T Architects
- Location: Silvrettastraße 7a, 6791 St.Gallenkirch, Austria
- Typology: Residencial Projects /Apartments
- Project Completion: 2016
- Site Area: 2.745 m2
- Floor Area: 2.136 m2
- Built-up Area: 1.909 m2
- Photography: © Courtesy of D O R N E R \ M A T T Architects
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 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 Gallery
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
- Construction: Rhomberg Bau GmbH, L
- Structural consultant: Mader Flatz
- Project Manager: DI Isabelle Groll
