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Smart Material Houses - Hamburg

Hamburg, DE

The “Smart Material Houses” explore a holistic approach to material use, considering not only performance but also lifecycle, production, and recyclability. The design combines a simple building structure with a technologically advanced and adaptable envelope.

The concept redefines “smart materials” by focusing on their intelligent application across the entire lifecycle. Rather than complexity in form, the design emphasizes a clear and reduced building volume, complemented by a high-performance facade system. The building geometry responds to orientation and solar exposure. Projecting “summer spaces” extend the living areas on the east, south, and west, providing daylight, passive shading, and seasonal outdoor living. Behind this layer, a compact and highly insulated “winter house” ensures energy efficiency. The building adapts throughout the year, shifting from a compact thermal volume in winter to an open terrace-like structure in warmer seasons.

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A combination of movable glazing, insulated glass, and textile shading elements allows flexible responses to changing climatic conditions. Apartments are accessed via a central core and can be subdivided into different unit types using lightweight partition systems. Living spaces are oriented toward the park, while service areas are located on the north side.

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Timber is the primary construction material, chosen for its ecological and structural qualities. Prefabrication and a reduced use of solid construction elements shorten construction time. All components are designed for disassembly, enabling efficient recycling and supporting a sustainable building lifecycle.

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