Habitat L | Architekt Andreas Gruber

Habitat L is located in the rural area near Lengstein in the municipality of Ritten. The surroundings are characterized by agricultural activities, chestnut forests, viticulture, and livestock farming. The building site, an exposed location on the eastern site of the Eisack Valley. The structure presents itself as a contemporary interpretation of a farmstead ensemble, seamlessly blending agricultural functionality with an appealing residential concept for a young family. Conceived as a contemporary ode to rural architecture, Habitat L embodies a symbiosis of traditional and modern elements, resulting in a harmonious and functional overall picture. The building appears as a two- story volume with a pitched roof. The natural terrain has been preserved consistently. The construction was chosen in accordance with local conditions and typologies of the settlement environment and constitutes an important recipe for the overall impression. Lime plastered walls, washed concrete surfaces, and chestnut wood from the farm's own forest characterize this image. The robust walls, up to 90 centimeters thick, convey a solid and aesthetically pleasing structure and are evident with the deep facade incisions. Parts of the walls are also used in their form as furniture, such as seating niches directly by the window glass. The building is accessed from the mountain side via a path that ends at the building. The ground floor accommodates living and sleeping areas as well as the corresponding wet rooms. In contrast, the basement houses the agriculturally used rooms, which are accessed independently from the valley side. In the medium term, the farming family intends to refine the farm's own products, and the project has created the necessary conditions for this purpose. The striking exterior of the building is characterized by chestnut wood, sourced from the farm's own chestnut grove, which not only adorns and protects the facades but has also been crafted into furniture, creating a warm and authentic atmosphere. The energy-efficient heating system utilizes geothermal drilling combined with a heat pump, while a nearby photovoltaic system on the barn building complements the sustainable energy concept. Only natural materials were used in the construction project, reflecting a fundamental approach to farming and nature. Habitat L reflects the connection with the rural environment and landscape, demonstrating a successful fusion of tradition and innovation.