How a Half-Timbered House Lives on as a Timber Frame

The municipality of Allschwil, located on the south-western outskirts of Basel, is characterised by the charm of its old half-timbered houses, known in Switzerland as “Riegelhäuser”. One such listed building stood on the plot of land where the couple who commissioned the project now live. However, its structure was in such poor condition that renovation was out of the question. Instead, a new building was constructed to reflect the historic appearance of the original. Degelo Architekten translated the structure of the original half-timbered building into a prefabricated timber frame construction.

The front building is positioned on the eaves side of the property, facing the street. © Barbara Bühler

Modelled on the historic half-timbered house, which was used as a dwelling for poor people, the new building has also been designed to appear simple. The construction is straightforward and unadorned, with few untreated materials used inside and outside. Like the old building, the new one comprises two structures facing the street, connected by a third. Only the topography has been adjusted, ensuring that the ground floors of the front and rear buildings are at the same level. This creates a sheltered terrace between the three structures, accessible from the kitchen and living room.

Large wooden windows, light three-layer panels, visible laminated timber ceilings and concrete-grey tiles characterise the interior. © Barbara Bühler

The previous building's facade structure has also been retained. Veneer panels made of white fir and insulated with mineral wool now fill the structure. The timber panel construction has made the diagonal struts redundant – the bracing is now provided by the internal three-layer panels. The interior is characterised by their light appearance, combined with the visible glulam ceilings and concrete-grey tiles.

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