House Gassmann

Set on a hillside above Flims Waldhaus, with unobstructed views over the village, a block of flats comprising two residential units has been built. The clients were looking for a style of living that combines urban living with the expansive countryside of Graubünden – a brief that is reflected significantly in both the choice of location and the materials used.

A defining feature of the building’s exterior is the contrast between the clinker brick façade and the glass elements, such as the balcony railings. The solid, warm-toned brick meets transparent, light surfaces, creating an interplay between weight and lightness that lends the building a certain airiness despite its compact form. This principle is consistently carried through to the interior: exposed concrete walls and strategically placed rammed-earth walls contrast with the large window fronts, creating an immediate interplay between raw texture and openness.

The choice of materials also determines the atmosphere of the interior spaces. Light-coloured furniture and a dark trowelled finish on the floor create a calm backdrop that showcases the iridescent concrete surfaces without weighing down the space. The result is a living environment that feels both modern and elegant – characterised by clear contrasts in materials rather than decorative embellishments.