Nestled on the shores of Lake Starnberg, just 20 kilometers from Munich, two striking black-clad houses stand as a testament to innovative architecture and sustainable design. Designed by Buero Wagner, these minimalist homes challenge conventional residential structures with their bold single-pillar construction, proving that small-footprint living can be both spacious and sophisticated.
Situated in the quiet neighborhood of Söcking, the project emerged from the urban developmentinitiative Vision Starnberg 2025, which sought to redensify existing plots rather than expand into untouched land. The original 1950s house on the site was demolished due to its poor material quality, and the debris was recycled, aligning with the project’s eco-conscious ethos. In its place, two charred timber-clad homes were erected—one for a father, the other for his son’s family—each occupying just 90 square meters yet feeling expansive through clever spatial planning.
The architectural design of the houses is defined by their single central pillar, eliminating the need for interior walls and creating an open-plan living experience. The first floor consists of one uninterrupted space, with zones for cooking, dining, and living subtly delineated by level changes in the floor and ceiling. A floor-to-ceiling window stretches across the garden-facing side, dissolving the boundary between indoors and out.
The kitchen, a central hub of the home, is ingeniously integrated into the structure—its concrete countertop was cast directly onto the load-bearing pillar, merging function and form. Built-in oak furniture, including storage steps and a checkroom, further enhances the efficient use of space, while raw steel railings and a custom fireplace add an industrial elegance.
Embracing bio-based construction, the houses feature charred timber facades, a traditional Japanese technique known as shou sugi ban. This carbonization process naturally weatherproofs the wood, eliminating the need for chemical treatments. Inside, exposed concrete and solid wood surfaces remain unadorned, celebrating material authenticity while reducing unnecessary layers.
The basement and ground floor were constructed from sandblasted concrete, providing a raw yet refined texture, while the upper level utilizes solid wood for warmth and intimacy. Heating is provided by an air-source heat pump paired with photovoltaic panels and concrete core activation, ensuring energy efficiency without compromising comfort.
Despite their modern aesthetic, the houses engage harmoniously with their surroundings. The charred wood exteriors echo the region’s rural barns, while the vertical façade slats shield private interiors from outside views. On the street-facing side, semi-circular cutouts frame glimpses of the Alpine treetops, offering a visual connection to nature.
By prioritizing smart urban infill over sprawl, Buero Wagner has crafted a future-forward housing solution that balances minimalist design, structural innovation, and environmental responsibility. The Houses with One Pillar stand not just as homes, but as a bold statement on how architecture can adapt to evolving needs—without sacrificing beauty or sustainability.