In Utting am Ammersee, Arnold / Werner realized a consistently sustainable and ecological residential building in solid wood construction. Set within the context of a traditional village structure with mature trees, the house was built near the lake shore as an experimental self-initiative addressing the theme of future-oriented, resource-conserving construction. A central design approach was the use of organic, local, and recycled materials—chiefly wood, which was employed for the load-bearing structure, thermal insulation, interior finishes, and the vibrant green facade with vertical slats. The exterior walls of the house, covering approximately 200 square meters of living space, were prefabricated off-site, transported to the construction site, and assembled in a very short time. Architecture, interior design, and landscaping—featuring native shrubs and trees to support biodiversity—are presented here as an integrated whole. The green roof (combined with a rainwater cistern), a wildflower meadow, and areas with dead wood provide habitats for small animals and insects, thereby promoting the protection of species diversity.
The interior spaces are defined by natural materials—such as clay plaster finishes and recycled, sustainability-certified (built-in) furniture. Some of the furniture is made from wood sourced from a tree that had to be felled on the property. The concept of reuse also plays an important role in the interior design: The permeable floor plan offers flexible usage options, allowing the living space to be later divided into two independent units, if desired. Additionally, there is a clear spatial division between an open ground floor (with an entrance hall, a spacious and functional kitchen, living/dining area, and guest room) and an upper floor with more private areas for parents and children. These are separated by the open space above the dining area and a T-shaped staircase.
Large south-facing windows and sliding doors provide views of the garden and the immediate surroundings, while also allowing abundant daylight to flood the interior, enabling passive solar energy use. These openings create a seamless connection between the interior and exterior spaces. A surrounding balcony and a large roof overhang provide summer shading and rain protection for the wooden facade. Another key theme is self-sufficiency: The sustainability concept is rounded off by a rainwater cistern, a heat pump, a photovoltaic system with battery storage, and a wallbox. Together, these elements enable the house to meet the KfW40 energy standard.
House A/Z served as an experimental project exploring sustainable practices. The procedures and techniques learned and established during its realization are now set to be applied in future projects, fully embracing the principle of "learning by doing."
