The former farmhouse with a neighbouring barn in the Swiss canton of Thurgau was given a sensitive yet impressive modernisation by the architectural team from Bauatelier Metzler GmbH with a focus on sustainability. Both parts of the building now house a total of eight modern flats.
Swisspearl in-roof photovoltaic modules were installed on the entire southern roof deck of the former barn, earning the apartment block Minergie-A certification. On sunny days, the photovoltaic system produces more electricity than is consumed in the building – the remaining electricity is used for the building’s electric car, which the residents can use for occasional journeys in the region. The north side of the roof was covered with Swisspearl roofing slate in dark anthracite to create a uniform and harmonious roof appearance together with the solar system. The small-format roof slate also gives the building a visual reminder of the former barn. For the façade, the architects opted for Swiss wood – a natural product that, together with the roof made of natural Swisspearl fibre cement, creates a durable building envelope.