Broken Down House in Poznań: A Contemporary Residential Design by Ultra Architects

Located in Poznań, the Broken Down House by Ultra Architects is a striking example of contemporary residential architecture that merges classical form with innovative spatial solutions. Completed in 2018, this 345 m² single-family home responds intelligently to site constraints, local regulations, and challenging terrain conditions, resulting in a dynamic and sculptural architectural expression.

Architectural Concept and Site Response

The house is situated on an elongated parallelogram-shaped plot, where strict development guidelines dictated the building line, roof pitch, and maximum ridge height. In response, the architects adopted a traditional gable-roofed form, ensuring compliance while maintaining a familiar architectural language.

However, to adapt this classical volume to the site’s geometry and functional needs, the structure is strategically “broken” along the ridge line. This subtle yet impactful gesture transforms the otherwise simple mass into a dynamic form, enhancing both spatial organization and visual identity.

This design move not only optimizes the building’s fit within the plot but also introduces a unique architectural rhythm, balancing tradition with contemporary innovation.

Spatial Organization and Functional Layout

Due to the sloping terrain, the house is organized across three levels, each serving distinct functions:

• Middle Level: Main entrance, garage, children’s bedrooms, and a compact independent apartment
• Lower Level: Open-plan living area, kitchen, and a conservatory connected to the garden
• Upper Level: Private zone featuring the master bedroom and study

The structure is built entirely from reinforced concrete, ensuring stability on the geotechnically challenging site while allowing for bold architectural gestures and open interior spaces. This material choice also supports long-term durability and cost efficiency.

Interior Design and Material Palette

A defining feature of the house is the central staircase, which acts as both a spatial and environmental core. Beyond connecting all floors, it functions as a passive ventilation system:

• In summer, it promotes natural airflow by acting as a vertical ventilation shaft
• In winter, it helps distribute solar heat collected through the conservatory

This sustainable strategy enhances indoor comfort while reducing reliance on mechanical systems.

The interior aesthetic embraces raw materiality and minimalism. Exposed concrete surfaces remain unplastered, highlighting the structural honesty of the building. Custom-designed furniture made from lacquered plywood complements the industrial character, while terrazzo flooring adds durability and subtle texture to living and circulation areas.

Exterior Expression and Material Strategy

The exterior is unified through the use of raw larch wood slats, applied consistently across the façade, roof, and fencing. This natural material softens the geometric form and allows the building to blend harmoniously with its surroundings.

Over time, the larch will weather gracefully, reinforcing the project’s connection to nature and enhancing its evolving architectural character.

Sustainable Design and Innovation

The Broken Down House integrates several passive design strategies, including:

• Natural ventilation through the staircase system
• Solar heat gain via the conservatory
• Durable, low-maintenance materials such as concrete and larch wood

These features contribute to energy efficiency while maintaining a high level of spatial comfort and architectural quality.

The Broken Down House in Poznań exemplifies how constraints can inspire creativity. By reinterpreting a traditional form through subtle geometric manipulation, Ultra Architects have created a home that is both functional and expressive. Its integration of sustainable strategies, material honesty, and spatial innovation makes it a standout example of modern residential architecture.

All photographs are works of  Przemysław Turlej, Tomasz Hejna, Dawid Majewski