Article source: Davide Macullo Architects

Muttenz is a historic municipality on the outskirts of the city of Basel, which from an urban perspective looks like an extension of the city.

The construction, used as a primary dwelling, is designed as a volume enclosed by a set of concrete sects. From a distance, the house appears to be an interpretation of traditional residential architecture and its forms from afar are familiar. Its pitched roof fits harmoniously with the overall impression of the quarter.  This familiarity however changes as you approach closer. When you arrive in front of the house you don’t recognize the volume that you have seen from afar. Instead, you are faced with a composition of exposed concrete sects that regulates the relationship between the interior and exterior. The sects and the glass openings are arranged in such a way as to direct the views from the inside of the rooms to the outside, in selected directions. This gives preference to the most beautiful and wider views, while respecting the privacy of residents and neighbours.

Image Courtesy © Fabrice Fouillet

• Architects: Davide Macullo Architects
• Project: Swisshouse XXXVI
• Location: Muttenz, Baselland, Switzerland
• Photography: Fabrice Fouillet
• Site area: 478 sqm
• Building area (footprint): 125 sqm
• Total floor area GFA: 214 sqm above ground, 109 sqm below ground
• Net floor area: 160.50 sqm above ground, 84 sqm below ground
• Volume: 741 m3 above ground, 310 m3 below ground
• Storeys: 1 level basement, 3 levels above ground

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