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.

A modern, two-story building with a grid-like facade and large windows, surrounded by trees.
A modern building with a grid-like structure and open framework, surrounded by trees.
A modern two-story building with a grid-like white framework and grey cladding, featuring open spaces on the ground level and enclosed spaces above.
A modern three-story building with a grid-like structure and enclosed balconies, surrounded by greenery.
A modern building with a grid-like framework and dark facade, surrounded by greenery and trees.
A modern multi-story building with a grid-like facade is situated in a grassy field surrounded by trees.
A minimalist exterior view of a building with a covered walkway featuring white structural beams and gray wooden walls. The walkway has metal mesh railings and plastic chairs.
A modern building structure with a grid-like metal framework and open spaces. A person is standing on the upper level, looking out over the surroundings.
A modern building exterior with a wooden facade and white metal framework, featuring a series of balconies overlooking a grassy landscape.
A minimalist outdoor space with a ceiling light, two white plastic chairs, and a metal railing, overlooking trees.
A modern exterior view of a building featuring a covered walkway with a grid-patterned railing and a staircase. The structure is composed of clean lines and neutral colors, with a circular light fixture on the wall.
A covered exterior walkway with wooden siding and white columns.
A long, covered exterior walkway with white structural beams and gray wooden walls, featuring several white plastic chairs along the side.
A modern exterior walkway with white structural beams and a grey wall, featuring two white plastic chairs.
A modern architectural structure with white framing and a metal mesh railing, overlooking a green landscape.
A minimalist outdoor space featuring a white structural framework with a single white chair on a paved surface, surrounded by greenery.
A modern building exterior with a metal mesh balcony and white framework, overlooking a green landscape.
A covered outdoor area with a concrete ceiling and columns, featuring two white plastic chairs and a view of a grassy landscape with trees.
A minimalist interior room with light wood-paneled walls and ceiling, featuring a single yellow chair and a window.
Interior view of a room with light wood paneling, a large window, and a kitchenette.
An interior view of a room with light wooden walls and ceiling, a single red chair, and an open door leading to an outdoor area.
Interior view of a minimalistic room with light wood paneling on the walls and ceiling, featuring two windows and a door leading outside.
Interior view of a minimalist room with light wood paneling on the walls and ceiling, a white door slightly ajar, and a view into another room with a window.
Interior view of a minimalist hallway with wooden ceiling and door frames.
A site plan drawing showing the layout of a building and surrounding area with trees and pathways.
Architectural floor plan of a building showing designated areas for parking/bicycles, a community room, storage, and an office.
A detailed floor plan of a housing unit showing multiple rooms and common areas.
Floor plan of a residential building with multiple rooms and common areas.
Architectural section drawing of a multi-level building with labeled areas for parking, communal spaces, and various apartment types.
Architectural section drawing of a multi-story building with parking, communal spaces, and residential units, surrounded by trees.
A simple architectural diagram showing a rectangular building with arrows pointing towards it, indicating a focus on minimizing thermal volume.
A simple architectural elevation drawing of a building with a grid-like structure and two human figures for scale.
Diagram showing three options for flexible housing arrangements with labeled rooms and communal areas.
A schematic drawing of a building layout with a grid structure and movable wall panels.
A series of architectural floor plans labeled as different apartment types: Whg. XS, Whg. S, Whg. M, Whg. L, and Whg. XL. Each plan shows a layout with rooms, furniture, and dimensions.
An exploded axonometric drawing of a multi-story building, showing different layers and structural components.

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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