Wooden House by Studio Noun: Sustainable Timber Architecture with Local Craftsmanship

Nestled in the scenic landscape of Unterwasser (Toggenburg) in Switzerland, Studio Noun’s Wooden House is a testament to sustainable, low-tech architecture. Designed to preserve the traditional craft of timber construction, the house incorporates locally sourced materials and innovative prefabrication methods, making it an exemplary case for contemporary wood architecture.

Concept and Design:

The design concept for the Wooden House focused on minimizing the use of glue, metal, and concrete, aiming to create a structure almost entirely out of wood. By using solid timber construction, the architects were able to build the house without the usual materials typically needed to join elements, such as glue or metal. The walls are crafted from a series of cross-laid planks joined with beech wood dowels, with air pockets trapped between the layers, providing natural insulation.

Sustainable Materials and Craftsmanship:

The timber used for the construction—spruce and fir—was sourced from a 30-kilometer radius, sawn locally, and installed by skilled local craftsmen. The commitment to sustainability extends beyond the structural elements: the interior finishes, including doors, floors, and built-in cupboards, are also made from the same locally sourced wood, further reinforcing the house’s connection to its natural surroundings.

The Wooden House is a direct response to a growing family’s need for more space while respecting the cultural and agricultural protection zone in which it is located. The architects maintained the foundations of the old house built in the 1970s to create the new timber structure, ensuring minimal environmental impact.

Architectural Details:

The design also reflects local architectural typologies. Ribbon windows running the length of the south and west façades are characteristic of traditional Swiss houses, as is the exaggerated shed roof motif. A distinctive corner cut at the building’s edge creates a covered, wind-protected space, providing a view into the valley and giving the house a unique character. Inside, a double-height room centered around a large fireplace serves as the heart of the home. The open hallway running through the center of the house connects the living area to the upper floor, with daylight streaming in through a large roof opening, providing a bright and airy atmosphere.

Aesthetic Touches:

The interior design of the Wooden House is thoughtfully curated, with the beauty of the natural wood highlighted throughout. Specially designed light fixtures with circular sockets carved into the wood evoke the growth rings of tree trunks, adding a natural, organic touch to the space.

All photographs are works of Zsigmond Toth