Modern Rebuilt Home in Austria by Untertrifaller Architekten

We often see thoughtful renovations and adaptive reuse projects that refresh older buildings, but sometimes an existing house is too poorly configured or too damaged to justify renovation. That was the case for a 1960s residence on a beautiful lot in Austria, which Untertrifaller Architekten chose to demolish in order to design a new home better suited to contemporary living. The result is a refined, relaxed house defined by two primary materials—wood and concrete—and an architecture that opens generously to the garden and light.

The new building sits on a concrete base with warm wooden walls above, producing a calm, tactile contrast. The ground floor features an open-plan living area that flows into the kitchen and dining space and then extends directly onto a spacious outdoor deck. Floor-to-ceiling glazing and large sliding glass doors dissolve the boundary between inside and out, making the terrace and the exposed-concrete pool visually and physically accessible from the main living spaces.

On the upper level, the house accommodates private rooms: the master bedroom, children’s bedrooms and bathrooms, plus other intimate spaces designed for daily family life. A sheltered balcony runs the length of the façade above the living area, providing shade, privacy and a framed view over the garden. Small window openings in the silver-fir façade on the side facing neighboring properties selectively frame views, while the main façades open fully to the south and the garden, maximizing daylight and solar exposure.

The interior palette is intentionally restrained: white surfaces, natural wood, and a subtle touch of deep bluish-gray create a bright, soothing atmosphere. Materials and finishes emphasize a timeless, contemporary aesthetic without unnecessary ornament. In the kitchen, sleek white cabinetry and wooden floors are complemented by darker appliances and fittings that add visual contrast and practical durability.

Large glazing elements and sliding doors create a continuous relationship between dining, living, and outdoor spaces. Natural light fills the interior while the deck becomes an extension of the living room during warmer months, ideal for family gatherings and outdoor dining. Thoughtful lighting around the exterior—such as LEDs illuminating steps to the pool and deck—enhances usability and ambiance after dusk.

The covered entrance combines exposed concrete and wood, establishing the material language before you enter the house. Inside, generous ceiling heights and room-high glazing enhance openness, while the upper-level balcony with wooden balustrade offers privacy to the glazed bedrooms. These design choices balance outward views and inward privacy, creating a family-oriented home that feels both open and protected.

“The small window openings in the silver fir façade towards the neighboring houses only frame specific views. The building opens generously to the south and the garden: room-high sliding doors on the raised ground floor extend the living space to the outside, with direct access to the terrace and an exposed concrete pool. Above, a full-length balcony with a wooden balustrade offers privacy and security to the room-height glazed bedrooms…”

The exterior spaces include an expansive wooden deck with an outdoor dining area and a pool, creating a refreshing extension of the living spaces. Steps lead down from the house to the deck and pool, and lighting defines circulation and atmosphere for evening use. This careful integration of landscape and architecture makes the home adaptable to family life, entertaining, and quiet private moments.

This rebuilt residence by Untertrifaller Architekten is an example of a clear, contemporary approach to family housing in Austria. By using robust materials, generous glazing, and a strong indoor-outdoor connection, the design creates a comfortable, modern home that responds to site conditions, privacy needs and everyday family life.