Villa M, a clear and compact volume among the vineyards

This project replaces the old residential house that stood on this slope surrounded by vineyards just above the artists' town of Klausen. Important factors influencing the design were the existing topography and the relationship to the valley and the mountain. The new building sits on the ground and stands out among the vineyards with a clear and compact volume. It towers over the slope in a prominent position overlooking the valley, showing all its character. From this location, the generous windows allow for privileged views of the Säben/Sabiona monastery, the Tiso hills and the Eisack/Isarco valley. The outdoor area, as an extension of the constructed living space, played an essential role, especially for the main house. It is in this context that the second body, the annex, was developed. The two separate volumes, connected by a roof, gently fit into the existing terrain, stretching in the direction of the topographical curves. As with the pre-existing building, each floor is accessible from the outside. The ramp in front of the building has been retained and allows pedestrian access to the ground floor as well as vehicular access to the garage. An external staircase connects the ground floor with the upper floor. The main entrance is reached by a short staircase, enclosed by a structure in exposed reinforced concrete, which, crossing the old stone retaining wall, leads to the basement area. Here are several cellar rooms and the boiler room as well as the garage where up to four cars can be parked. Straight ahead from the entrance door there is a staircase leading from the basement to the ground floor, where there is an adjoining flat of 70 m2 and the entrance to the main apartment. The ground floor of the adjoining apartment consists of an entrance hall/wardrobe, a storage room, a bathroom, two bedrooms and a small kitchen. From the kitchen and the rooms there is direct access to the outdoor area. The main apartment extends from the ground floor to the roof and the connections between the floors are via internal stairs. The living area, consisting of living room and kitchen with dining table, is located on the upper floor. This is the most "open" part of the house, as it is almost completely surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows, which, thanks to the privileged elevated position of the building, allow views of the surrounding landscape. The rooms at the back are more sheltered. They consist of a study, a laundry room and a WC. Directly connected to the floor is the outdoor area on the slope side. In the neighbouring annex there is a covered dining area and an open storage room. The sleeping area with three children's rooms, the master bedroom and two bathrooms is situated on the attic floor. On this floor there is also an open terrace, accessible from the parents' bedroom.