Private House in Thusis by Angela Deuber Architects

A Minimalist Concrete Residence in the Swiss Alps

The Private House in Thusis, designed by Angela Deuber Architects, is a striking example of modern residential architecture that seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings. Located in Thusis, Switzerland, this minimalist home was designed for a single occupant and offers a unique spatial composition that blurs the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Site and Context

Nestled in the canton of Grisons, the house is positioned on a natural plateau, bordered by an upper and lower embankment. From below, the structure extends 24 meters in length, appearing as a single-story volume within the garden. However, when viewed from above, only a modest rooftop is visible against the dramatic mountain backdrop. The design strategically incorporates concrete walls that merge the building with the existing topography, creating a sense of openness and connection to the landscape.

Architectural Design and Materiality

The residence is defined by a geometric composition consisting of a single column, two parallel walls, and four angular corners, all constructed from exposed light grey concrete. These elements work together to create a cohesive architectural form. The walls, aligned with the trapezoidal site, support a continuous roof that extends seamlessly from the interior to the exterior. A generous overhang of up to 3.40 meters shelters the outdoor terrace, enhancing the home’s connection to nature.

The concrete surfaces were meticulously crafted on-site, with the floors either sandblasted or hand-hammered to achieve a textured, tactile finish. This attention to detail highlights the material’s raw beauty, reinforcing the home’s minimalist and monolithic aesthetic.

Spatial Organization and Interior Experience

Despite its compact footprint, the interior layout creates a sense of spaciousness and fluidity. Two concrete walls define a central triangular entrance, subtly dividing the floor plan into three primary living zones:

• The Living Room – A bright, open space with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame panoramic views of the Swiss Alps.
• The Kitchen – An intimate yet functional area designed for efficiency and connection with the outdoors.
• The Private Quarters – A secluded retreat offering a sense of serenity and escape.

The full-height glass openings at the edges of each space dissolve the boundary between inside and outside, ensuring a constant visual dialogue with the landscape. This interplay of solid and transparent elements enhances the home’s architectural simplicity while maximizing natural light and ventilation.

Sustainable and Contextual Approach

In keeping with contemporary principles of sustainable architecture, the Private House in Thusis leverages passive design strategies to minimize its environmental footprint. The thermal mass of the concrete regulates indoor temperatures, reducing the need for mechanical heating and cooling. Additionally, the integration of the house into the site’s topography minimizes disruption to the natural environment, preserving the integrity of the surrounding landscape.

Angela Deuber’s design for the Private House in Thusis exemplifies a thoughtful and restrained approach to residential architecture. Through its bold geometry, material honesty, and seamless indoor-outdoor connection, the house embodies a harmonious balance between built form and nature. This project stands as a testament to the power of minimalist design and context-driven architecture, redefining the notion of modern Alpine living.

All Photographs are works of Schaub Stierli Fotografie