Hasenbühl residential building
Schönaich, DE


Client City of Schönaich
Architecture Atelier Kaiser Shen
Image credits Matthias Dengler, str.ucture
Scope Structural design all phases
Materials Timber, steel, reinforced concrete
Covered area 560 m²
Envelope area 2250 m²
Volume 300 m³
Planning period 2019 - 2021
Expected completion 2024
Completion 2025

Prefabricated timber room modules to enable a fast construction time on site.

The Hasenbühl residential building was originally planned as accommodation for refugees. As requirements changed, the concept was further developed: today, the building provides housing for people in need and can be used long-term as social housing. This adaptability is a central theme of the project.


The new building is clearly and simply structured. A prefabricated, two-storey timber structure sits on a solid base with an underground garage. An external steel framework organizes circulation and extends the building with balconies and shared spaces, particularly on the western side. The ventilated façade is made of pre-greyed larch wood.

The floor plans are based on a fixed grid while remaining flexible: non-load-bearing walls can be adjusted to create apartments ranging from one to six rooms. This allows the building to respond to changing requirements with minimal effort. The interiors are finished in exposed spruce wood, enabling individual appropriation of the spaces. Demountable walls are painted white, making the building’s structure legible. For acoustic performance, the internal walls are clad on one side with three-layer spruce panels.

Overall, the project combines a clear construction system with a high degree of adaptability, creating housing that can respond to a wide range of needs.