Nordlicht House: A Sustainable Modern Interpretation of Bavarian Tradition

Nestled in the heart of the Bavarian-Bohemian Forest Nature Park in Waldkirchen, Germany, Nordlicht House by FACE | Büro Florian Schätz emerges as a striking modern reinterpretation of the region's traditional Waldlerhaus. Spanning 273 m², this innovative bungalow harmoniously blends nature, sustainability, and contemporary design, reflecting both regional heritage and New Regionalism principles.

Design Concept and Architectural Approach

Inspired by a former stonemason's vision for a minimalist, seamless home, Nordlicht House was conceived as a monolithic lightweight concrete structure under a broad, overhanging Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) roof. The architecture strategically orchestrates interior spaces while framing the surrounding landscape through a dynamic interplay of solid and void, allowing residents to enjoy the forested environment in all seasons.

The building’s low horizontal silhouette references the elongated “Bayerwald” roof typology, connecting tradition with mid-century bungalow sensibilities. Its spatial organization emphasizes open-plan living, with the south-facing “Stube” encompassing living, dining, and kitchen areas centered around a wooden fireplace. Bedrooms, studio, and study spaces are arranged along the east and north sides, while the cubic “Gobel” dormer offers panoramic views of the sunset, blending comfort with a deep engagement with nature.

Innovative Materials and Sustainability

Nordlicht House demonstrates forward-thinking sustainable architecture. The project replaces conventional synthetic insulation with lightweight thermal concrete, enriched with foam glass and natural clay aggregates, addressing environmental concerns without compromising structural integrity. During winter casting, innovative cooling strategies, using ice water and thermal packaging, preserved the smooth concrete finish and prevented capillary cracks.

Spruce trees from the surrounding forest were used to imprint textures onto the concrete walls, creating a poetic dialogue between material and environment. Renewable technologies: including wood pellet heating, solar water heating, and underfloor heating/cooling systems, help the building achieve an A-Plus energy efficiency rating, reducing primary energy consumption to less than 30 kWh/(m²*a).

Integration with Landscape

Nordlicht House is designed to meld seamlessly into the natural topography, with large glazed openings connecting interior spaces to the forested surroundings. The garden and terrace areas extend the living experience outdoors, enhancing the indoor-outdoor relationship that defines the project. This careful integration preserves the regional architectural essence while providing modern comfort and functionality.

A Cultural and Architectural Dialogue

Operated from Singapore and Germany, the FACE team, led by Florian Schätz, bridges Asian lifestyle concepts with Bavarian architectural heritage, pioneering sustainable residential design. Nordlicht House exemplifies how thoughtful architecture can enhance life quality while respecting environmental imperatives, setting a benchmark for sustainable, site-responsive living.

Nordlicht House stands as a monument to tradition, innovation, and sustainability, redefining what it means to live in harmony with both culture and nature.

All photographs are works of  FACE | Florian Schaetz