Kylie: A Rotating Residential House

Revolutionizing the Concept of Home

Located on the outskirts of Heuchelheim, Hesse, Germany, Kylie is a residential house designed by Gronych Plus Dollega Architekten. This innovative structure challenges traditional notions of home design by incorporating a rotating feature that adapts to the changing position of the sun, creating a dynamic living experience.

The inspiration behind Kylie stems from the desire to establish a strong connection between the exterior and interior spaces. By rotating the building, the designers have created a unique cinematic experience for the residents, allowing them to witness the impact of different scenarios on the interior. This not only enhances the spatial atmosphere but also fosters a sense of identity and emotional connection to the changing seasons and the passage of time.

What sets Kylie apart is its ability to optimize energy efficiency and thermal comfort. The rotation of the structure minimizes heating requirements in winter by maximizing solar gains, while in summer, it provides shade to prevent overheating. This intelligent design ensures a comfortable living environment throughout the year.

The realization of Kylie was achieved through sustainable construction practices. The building materials were carefully chosen for their significance, and the use of a prefabricated modern timber frame construction method ensured both economic efficiency and ecological considerations. Native oakwood was utilized for the exterior, terrace decking, furniture, wall cladding, and parquet flooring, adding a touch of natural beauty to the design.

Technical specifications of Kylie include a groundwater heat pump for heating, capillary tube mats in the floor and ceiling for thermal comfort, and a photovoltaic system on the roof for electricity generation. In fact, the house produces more energy than it consumes, making it a truly sustainable living space.

The sculptural shape of Kylie is a result of careful consideration of user requirements, structural constraints, and energy efficiency. The living area, with its high, open-air space and a dynamically designed steel staircase, serves as the heart of the building. The functional areas are strategically arranged around this central space as freely formed architectural elements. Additionally, a separate boomerang-shaped structure houses the privacy area for the residents, connected to the main building through a walkway.

The design process for Kylie was not without its challenges. The experimental architecture, intricate geometry, and artisanal execution required immense passion and concentration from all parties involved. However, the end result is a harmonious balance of form and function, where the architecture transcends its physical boundaries and becomes a living organism.

Kylie's unique blend of innovation, sustainability, and aesthetic appeal has garnered recognition in the design world. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Architecture, Building, and Structure Design category in 2022. This prestigious accolade celebrates designs that exhibit outstanding creativity, technical skill, and a commitment to improving quality of life.

With Kylie, Gronych Plus Dollega Architekten has redefined the concept of a residential house, creating a living space that seamlessly integrates with its surroundings and adapts to the changing needs of its residents. It is a testament to the power of design to transform our everyday experiences and enhance our connection to the world around us.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: gronych + dollega architekten
Image Credits: gronych + dollega architekten Peter Gronych + Yvonne Dollega
Project Team Members: Peter Gronych + Yvonne Dollega
Project Name: Kylie
Project Client: gronych + dollega architekten


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