Project

Restoration of a Listed Farmhouse

- Riaz, Switzerland

The restoration of a 1718 farmhouse in Riaz, preserving its historic timber façade while modernizing the interior.

Restored farmhouse with wooden façade and sloped roof, featuring multiple windows and an outdoor staircase.

A restored farmhouse with a wooden façade and a sloped roof, featuring multiple windows and a small outdoor staircase.

Story

Restoration of a Listed Farmhouse

Preserving Heritage, Embracing Modernity

The restoration of this 1718 farmhouse in Riaz embodies a meticulous balance between conservation and modern living. The building, listed in the cultural heritage inventory, retains its historic timber façade, a testament to local vernacular architecture. The renovation focused on the residential wing, adhering to both the client’s brief and heritage protection guidelines.

Inside, the original architectural elements, such as timber beams and staircases, were carefully sandblasted to reveal their natural beauty. Light spruce, historically present, was chosen as the primary material, enhanced by bright finishes to amplify natural light. The interior layout respects the existing structure while providing modern comforts.

Thermal efficiency improvements were paramount, with the building envelope insulated to contemporary standards. Connection to the district heating network optimizes energy use, aligning with environmental requirements.

Design Highlights

  • Preservation of the historic timber façade

  • Use of light spruce and bright finishes

  • Sandblasting of original beams and staircase

  • Enhanced thermal efficiency and acoustic performance

Key Facts

Element Description
Year Built 1718
Location Riaz, Switzerland
Primary Material Light Spruce
Heating System District Heating Network
Heritage Listing Cultural Heritage Inventory

This project exemplifies contemporary architecture's role in preserving historical integrity while meeting modern standards.

Technical summary

Updated 2/4/2026

Finishes

  • Interior: Light spruce wood was used for flooring and walls, complemented by bright finishes to maximize natural light.
  • Exterior: The timber façade was retained and restored to maintain the building's historic character.

Materials

  • Wood — Used extensively for flooring, walls, ceiling beams, and the façade.
  • Plaster — Used in combination with wood for interior walls.

Construction / Systems

  • Insulation: The entire building envelope was insulated to meet current thermal efficiency standards.
  • Heating: Connection to the district heating network to optimize energy consumption.

Products

  • Not specified

Palette / Lighting

  • Colors: light wood, white
  • Lighting: Bright and natural, enhanced by the use of light-colored finishes.

Images

Restored farmhouse with wooden façade and sloped roof, featuring multiple windows and an outdoor staircase.
Wooden farmhouse façade with multiple windows.
Close-up view of a wooden farmhouse facade featuring a window with light-colored frame.
Interior room with light wooden flooring, exposed beams, and a wooden door.
Interior room with wooden beams, modern fireplace, wooden flooring, window, and doorway.
Interior view of a room with light wooden floors and walls, exposed wooden beams, and a modern light fixture.
Interior of a room with wooden walls, ceiling beams, and two windows.
Interior of a farmhouse with wooden walls and staircase.
Wooden staircase and wall paneling in a restored farmhouse.
Interior of a farmhouse attic with exposed wooden beams and a hammock.
Floor plan of a building showing living, dining, kitchen, and bathroom areas.
Floor plan with bedrooms, bathrooms, and a staircase.
Section drawing of a farmhouse showing multiple levels and structural details.

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