House O | Peter Ruge Architekten

The site lies upon a hill in a beautiful small village in the district Potsdam-Mittelmark in a fantastic scenic situation with breathtaking views over the nearby lake. The surroundings are dominated by a combination of historical and modern mansions. As many of the old large trees on the site should be kept as possible. The new building is designed as a modern residential building with 3 flats. The floor plans are designed to be flexible and open. The main flat extends across two floors. Simple and reserved materials (exposed concrete, glass, wood, natural stone) underline the modern architectural style to accentuate focus upon the connection between the interior and outdoor spaces. All upper floors can be access via the external staircase. The concept for the facades plays with the contrast of open and closed dependent upon the surroundings and importance of natural perspectives. The narrow sides are glazed toward the south into the garden, and toward the north with the magnificent view over the lake. The west and east facades to the neighbouring sites are mainly closed and designed with large prefabricated concrete elements and some narrow glass bands. The inside of the building appears light, bright and friendly through the open glazed south and north facade. During the seasons the changing surroundings of the large deciduous trees and so also the spatial impression in building will continuously vary: • Winter - panoramic view, bright sun light • Summer - closed tree canopy with focused views, shadow with diffused sunlight The building will be heated by using geothermal energy. The integrated bus technology allows the individual controlling of the entire building everywhere and from every place.