Modern building with grid-like white framework and open spaces.

A modern, multi-story building with a grid-like white framework surrounding it. The structure features open spaces and balconies, with some trees visible in the surrounding area.

Modern two-story building with grid facade and large windows, surrounded by trees.
Modern building with grid structure and open framework, trees surrounding.
Modern building with white framework and grey cladding, featuring open ground level and enclosed upper level.
Exterior view of a three-story building with a grid-like structure and enclosed balconies, surrounded by trees.
Modern building with grid framework and dark facade surrounded by trees.
A multi-story building with a grid-like facade in a grassy field with trees.
Exterior view of a building with a covered walkway, white beams, gray walls, metal mesh railings, and plastic chairs.
Modern building with grid-like metal framework and open spaces, person standing on upper level.
Exterior view of a building with wooden facade and white metal framework, featuring balconies and a grassy landscape.
Minimalist outdoor area with ceiling light, two white chairs, and metal railing with trees in the background.
Exterior view of a building with a covered walkway, grid-patterned railing, and staircase.
Covered exterior walkway with wooden siding and white columns.
Exterior walkway with white beams and gray wooden walls, featuring white plastic chairs.
Exterior view of a modern building with a walkway, white beams, grey wall, and two white chairs.
White framed structure with metal mesh railing and green landscape in the background.
White structural framework with a chair on a paved surface, surrounded by trees and greenery.
Building exterior with metal mesh balcony and white framework, overlooking greenery.
Covered outdoor space with concrete ceiling, two white plastic chairs, and a view of a grassy landscape.
Minimalist room with light wood walls, a yellow chair, and a window.
Room interior with wooden walls and ceiling, a large window, and a kitchenette.
Interior room with wooden walls and ceiling, red chair, and open door to outside.
Interior of a room with light wood paneling, two windows, and a door.
Interior of a room with light wood paneling, a white door, and a view into another room with a window.
Minimalist interior hallway with wooden ceiling and door frames.
Site plan with building layout, trees, and pathways.
Floor plan layout with labeled sections for parking, community room, storage, and office.
Floor plan of a housing unit with several rooms and common areas, labeled with numbers and symbols.
Architectural floor plan showing a layout of a residential building with various rooms and communal spaces.
Section drawing of a building showing different levels with parking, communal spaces, and apartments.
Section drawing of a multi-story building with parking, communal areas, and residential units, set in a tree-lined environment.
Diagram of a rectangular building with arrows pointing towards it, emphasizing thermal volume reduction.
Architectural elevation drawing showing a grid-like building structure with two human figures.
A diagram illustrating three options for flexible housing. The first option is labeled 'Option 1: Wohnheim für Geflüchtete' with a layout of rooms and a communal space. The second option, 'Option 2: Wohnheim für Geflüchtete / Sozialer Wohnungsbau,' shows a similar layout with slight modifications. The third option, 'Option 3: Sozialer Wohnungsbau / Ausbau EG,' displays a more complex arrangement with additional labeled rooms. Arrows indicate flexibility between the options.
Schematic drawing showing a grid structure and movable wall panels for building flexibility.
Floor plans for different apartment types labeled Whg. XS, Whg. S, Whg. M, Whg. L, and Whg. XL, showing room layouts and furniture.
Exploded axonometric drawing of a building with multiple layers and structural elements visible.

Story

Innovative timber construction in Schönaich offers adaptable housing solutions for refugees and affordable living. In the small municipality of Schönaich, Baden-Württemberg, Atelier Kaiser Shen has crafted a model for affordable housing and refugee accommodation through pioneering timber construction techniques. The building's design is rooted in adaptability, allowing for future modifications that enhance its utility. A rigorously gridded floor plan, featuring load-bearing cross-laminated timber wall panels, is enclosed by a structural framework that supports multiple spatial configurations. This approach facilitates the seamless repurposing of the building, ensuring compliance with both refugee housing standards and social housing guidelines. The project exemplifies a high degree of prefabrication and flexible design, resulting in a long-term adaptable structure that remains perpetually 'unfinished.' The use of timber imbues it with a warm, natural aesthetic that contrasts with the precision of its modular layout.

Design Highlights

Utilizes cross-laminated timber for structural integrity and flexibility. Enclosing framework allows for multiple spatial programs. High prefabrication level ensures rapid construction and adaptability. Meets living space requirements for refugees and social housing.

Key Facts

Fact Detail
Location Schönaich, Baden-Württemberg
Architect Atelier Kaiser Shen
Year Completed 2026
Construction Method Timber construction
Main Use Housing for refugees and affordable living

Technical Summary

Finishes

  • exterior: Grid-like white framework with grey cladding.
  • interior: Light wood paneling on walls and ceiling.

Materials

  • timber — Load-bearing wall panels and general construction.
  • metal — Framework and railings.
  • plastic — Chairs in outdoor and indoor spaces.

Construction / Systems

  • structural: Load-bearing cross-laminated timber wall panels with an enclosing framework.

Products

  • Not specified

Palette / Lighting

  • Colors: white, grey, light wood
  • Lighting: minimalistic and calm

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