A bold architectural project by Ulrich Breutner and Ute Böttinger has earned prestigious recognition, with their transformed barn in Neuenstein-Kleinhirschbach being selected as one of Germany's Houses of the Year 2025. Working with Steinbach-Schimmel Architects, the couple successfully converted a historic barn into a modern design loft, earning recognition from Callwey Publishing as one of the 50 best single-family homes in the German-speaking region.
The residential barn project by Breutner and Böttinger represents a perfect fusion of modern living within a historic structure. Their collaboration with Steinbach-Schimmel Architects from Öhringen-Obermaßholderbach resulted in the 'Loft Living in the Barn' project, which will be featured in Callwey Publishing's book showcasing the year's most exceptional residential architecture.
"It is a great honor for our firm to have been selected among the best 50 houses of the year with this project," said architect Christoph Steinbach. "This recognition confirms our approach of developing contemporary architecture in respectful dialogue with existing structures." The architect emphasized how the award validates their philosophy of creating modern spaces while preserving historical integrity.
The barn's rich history dates back to 1810, with an addition constructed in 1928. Its massive half-timbered construction and large gabled roof continue to define the rural courtyard's character. The architectural strategy for the renovation was based on the principle of 'building within' – inserting the new living space as an independent volume within the existing structure, maintaining respectful distance from the load-bearing exterior walls.
This innovative approach protects the historic half-timbered framework from interventions while ensuring weather protection for the newly created living spaces. The spatial program follows a clear concept, creating a generous, open kitchen, dining, and living area with a surrounding loggia on one level. The glazed facade opens the interior space to the outdoors, seamlessly connecting indoor and outdoor living.
The residential layout includes a master bedroom with an adjacent dressing room and bathroom. Additionally, a separate unit with two rooms and a bathroom was created in the rear area, designed to serve as guest quarters or future care facilities. An integrated wellness area with a pool and sanitary facilities enhances the home's luxury amenities and creates a resort-like atmosphere.
According to the architect, materiality and color schemes were deliberately chosen to be understated and sophisticated. Black, smooth surfaces and vertical wood panels create a calm contrast to the rough, aged beams of the half-timbered structure. This careful material selection allows the building's original character to shine through while providing contemporary comfort and style.
The project stands as a model for sustainable renovation practices. The barn's original history remains readable and visible, while enabling sustainable and future-oriented residential use. "The renovation sets an example against the vacancy of many agricultural buildings and shows how modern living requirements can be brought into harmony with the preservation of historic architecture," Steinbach explained.
The Steinbach and Schimmel firms established a partnership company in 2024 and have previously received various awards, including the Hugo Häring Prize. According to their press statement, the firm's work is characterized by the search for timeless permanence, focusing on creating architecture that will endure both aesthetically and functionally for generations to come. This latest recognition further solidifies their reputation as leaders in sensitive historic preservation combined with contemporary design innovation.
