Co-Living House near Frauenfeld by Bernath+Widmer

They are replacing a dilapidated multi-purpose farm with a modern residential building. Using contemporary timber construction and exposed concrete, they are reinterpreting the traditional farmstead and preserving the structure of the Dingenhart hamlet. The architects have adopted the “all under one roof” concept and transformed it into a modern co-living project. However, the four spacious apartments, each with an en-suite bathroom and loggia, do not have separate kitchens. The owner intends for the future community of up to eight friends to cook and eat together in the large communal kitchen.

A large communal kitchen has been created in the area that used to be the threshing floor. © Roland Bernath

The couple who commissioned the project wanted to convert the existing building, a traditional Thurgau farmhouse with a barn, stables, and living quarters under one roof, into a house for residential use. However, after standing empty for many years, the building had fallen into disrepair, making a new build seem inevitable. This presented a challenge. The site is located in an agricultural zone where new buildings are only permitted for agricultural use. However, as the farm played an important role in the village, the canton of Thurgau finally agreed to allow the construction of a replacement building for residential use only.

To create the impression of a closed building envelope, similar to that of a threshing floor, the residential building has been fitted with folding shutters featuring the same slatted formwork as the wooden facade. © Roland Bernath

The new house had to be built in the same location and orientation as its predecessor, and to the same volume. Its appearance and that of the surrounding area had to be preserved as far as possible. However, the heated area could only be increased to a limited extent. Spacious loggias, terraces and an access area between the residential building and the communal area provide space for the unheated areas.

Spacious balconies provide the necessary unheated spaces. © Roland Bernath

"We didn't want to design either a museum building or a replica farmhouse in a historic style," says Benjamin Widmer, explaining the design. "We are adopting the typology, but the construction is contemporary." A spatial skeleton comprising narrow laminated ash beams and spruce supports spans the wide communal area. In keeping with the historical model, the timber construction is fully clad. When closed, vertical folding shutters create a continuous structure, which is continued in the exposed concrete of the residential wing. This was cast using vertical board formwork. Over the years, as the untreated boards weather to a silvery grey, they will increasingly match the colour of the house.

You can find out more in Detail 7/8.2025 and in our Detail Inspiration database.