Parlow House by ANNABAU Architektur and Landschaft GmbH – Sustainable Timber Architecture in Friedrichswalde, Germany

Parlow House, designed by ANNABAU Architektur and Landschaft GmbH and completed in 2022, is a stunning example of modern sustainable residential architecture in Friedrichswalde, Germany. Nestled opposite the village church on a rectangular plot, the home takes full advantage of its slightly sloping terrain, offering panoramic views over village rooftops and the surrounding countryside.

The house is deliberately narrow—just 5 meters wide and 15 meters long—preserving a generous amount of open space around it. Its shed roof runs parallel to the natural topography, blending seamlessly with the landscape. The ground floor cascades over four plateaus, with cross-laminated timber platforms connecting each level via stairs of varying inclinations, creating a dynamic interior flow. This thoughtful spatial design allows for flexible living areas, where zones for cooking, bathing, or dining coexist with multifunctional spaces adaptable to occupants’ needs.

Parlow House emphasizes sustainable and energy-efficient construction. The structural system integrates reinforced concrete floors at the base, while rising elements and ceilings are crafted entirely from cross-laminated timber, providing both durability and a warm, tactile interior aesthetic. The exterior walls, insulated with cellulose fiber, are clad in rough-cut red spruce planks, giving the home its distinctive character.

The project incorporates a green roof with a water retention layer, which stores rainwater and nurtures the rooftop vegetation while protecting against summer heat. Heating is achieved through an air-source heat pump, supplemented by a wood stove, while underfloor heating on the ground floor ensures thermal comfort. The home's massive components, like concrete floors, provide thermal mass, storing and gradually releasing heat to reduce energy consumption. The roof is also prepared for photovoltaic (PV) installation, enhancing the house's sustainability.

Parlow House features large, partly fixed-glass wall openings, which seamlessly connect the interior with the exterior landscape. A south-facing terrace, protected by a canopy, follows the cascading interior levels, framed by hardy kiwi plants that provide natural shade during the summer months. All materials were selected for longevity and durability, ensuring the house ages gracefully with time.

This residence stands as a remarkable example of modern sustainable timber architecture, combining minimalist design, energy efficiency, and harmonious integration with the surrounding environment. Parlow House exemplifies how thoughtful design and sustainable materials can create a home that is both functional and aesthetically compelling.

All the photographs are works of Hanns Joosten