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1. Which individual needs and wishes are particularly important in the planning process – and how have these been addressed in the design so far?
In my view, a house is not built only for oneself, but also for future generations. For this reason, I want to plan with foresight and have, for example, opted for a double garage – even though a single garage would be sufficient for my own needs. In addition, global warming does not stop at Liesberg. Topics such as Minergie standards, photovoltaics, thermal insulation, controlled ventilation, and air conditioning are therefore aspects that should be integrated into the project.
2. Are there specific rooms or elements in the house that you are particularly looking forward to or that are especially important to you?
Absolutely, the unobstructed view into nature thanks to the natural slope is definitely something I am looking forward to. But also the high ceiling heights, as well as good acoustic and daylight insulation. The house isoriented towards the south – facing the sun. Towards the street and the side elevations, there will only be a limited number of windows. Air conditioning is also planned – which is an additional benefit.
3. Were there moments during the planning process where your ideas changed? If so, why?
Yes, definitely – it is very much a work in progress. You start with certain ideas, wishes, and expectations, but especially through discussions with professionals and further research, it often becomes clear that some things are not as straight forward or cost-efficient to implement as initially assumed. Sometimes new input also emerges that suddenly feels more convincing than the original idea – that is completely normal. In my case, I decided against a ventilated, rainscreen façade for cost reasons and instead invested that budget into additional living space. I also initially considered incorporating a civil defence shelter, but that has since moved down the priority list. And the original idea of a water-based wood stove has been replaced in the planning by a masonry storage stove.
4. What role did sustainability and energy efficiency play in your project – and how are these aspects being implemented?
As mentioned, climate change is also a reality in Liesberg. My goal was therefore to achieve a highly sustainable and energy-efficient building with Minergie certification. I found materials such as clay and straw very interesting in this context, but ultimately the choice fell on concrete, which also offers many advantages in its own right.
5. Which architectural concepts or design principles were particularly important to you– for example style, openness, privacy, or light guidance?
My plot is located on a slope – a characteristic that also brings challenges, but which I wanted to take advantage of. The entrance facing the street is oriented to the north and is intentionally kept restrained and understated. The “wow effect” unfolds on the south side, with large windows, a terrace, and abundant natural light.
6. Sloping sites are considered challenging – which specific structural or planning solutions were implemented in your project?
For me, the slope was more of an advantage than a disadvantage. The basement level is aligned with part of the living areas – meaning the cinema room is directly adjacent to the living room rather than being isolated in the basement, which creates a stronger spatial connection. Another advantage is that the garden can be structured into different terraces. The most important benefit, however, is the unobstructed setting and the exceptional views.
7. How were daylight, shading, and indoor climate considered in the design – especially in a sloping site with specific solar conditions?
Shading is a key topic within Minergie requirements. The south façade is fully glazed but carefully shaded. East-facing windows were reduced in size to limit summer heat gain. To the north – towards the street and hillside – only a few windows were planned, ensuring privacy and contributing to passive cooling. Airconditioning manages the remaining temperature regulation.
8. What role did building services (e.g. heating, ventilation, smart home systems) play in the overall architectural concept?
A Minergie building places high demands on technical systems – from controlled ventilation and heating to photovoltaics and battery storage. Whether a smarthome system will be implemented is still open, but certainly a possibility.
9. What advice would you give to other clients planning a bespoke home in a challenging location?
With a strong team of experts supporting the process, very little can go wrong.
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