House on a Hill

If ever there were a property that looks like it could belong in a Wes Anderson movie, the wonderfully minimalist and understated House on a Hill from Amunt Architects is surely it. This magnificent-looking holiday home, located in Sankt Blaisen in Germany, boasts some 197m² of living space and there sort of low-key interior design aesthetic that we’re big fans of here at The Coolector.

Sustainable travel is a hot topic in the wake of climate change and Amunt Architect’s clients for House on a Hill, who only vacation in Germany, came to them looking for just that: namely, a sustainable holiday home with quality architecture that they could share with others of a similar mindset.

This generous, two-story property in the German mountains is designed to really make the most of the topography of the land. The entrance of House on a Hill leads to a wardrobe, and then a few steps down to the kitchen and dining area, which opens onto a large balcony beneath a maple tree. More steps lead to the living room and fireplace room and this glorious looking home is both spacious and well-lit, with plenty of room for entertaining or relaxing.

As you walk through the house, you are accompanied by stunning views of the valley and the surrounding area. The feeling of being both inside and outside is enhanced by the thin roof shell that protectively covers the two volumes of House on a Hill, which are angled at 45° to the slope. The abstract floor plan layout is designed to deliver an array of views of the surrounding landscapes without encroaching on neighbouring properties and allows natural light to flow through the home.

A central, open staircase leads to a gallery on the upper floor. The small, intimate, and unique rooms on this floor are in direct contrast with the spacious living area below. Vast windows bring the landscape into the house and the different sleeping arrangements are designed to provide a pleasant holiday retreat. There is a bunk bed similar to those found in mountain huts, a cosy bedroom reminiscent of an alcove, a sleeping gallery under the roof, and a bedroom with a view of the stars. In total, the house offers eight varied sleeping places for families, friends, and couples.

Leo Davie