a compact timber tower house rises from a triangular site in switzerland

kit stacks prefabricated timber volumes for swiss Tower house

Located in the Rhine Valley near St. Gallen, Switzerland, the Tower House by kit architects is a three-story detached dwelling that explores vertical living through prefabricated timber construction within a compact footprint. Designed for a family of four, the project occupies a constrained triangular site close to the historic village center, where considerations of scale, orientation, and privacy inform the layout.

The building is positioned to maintain distance from neighbouring structures, reduce overlooking, and open views toward the surrounding landscape. The site strategy also anticipates future development, allowing for the potential addition of a second house of similar dimensions on the southern portion of the plot. The form references the archetype of a rural house, defined by narrow proportions, tall elevations, and a pitched gabled roof. Deep roof overhangs protect the envelope and reinforce the clarity of the volume.

Construction is based on prefabricated spruce timber panels used for walls, floors, and ceilings. These elements were manufactured off-site and assembled within three days, reducing construction time and on-site impact. Internally, the timber structure remains exposed, defining the spatial character without additional finishes.

elevation north-east | all images by Till Forrer

Concrete Core and Timber Envelope Shape vertical Tower House

At the center of the plan, an exposed concrete core provides structural stability and accommodates vertical services. It also functions as an air shaft, supporting natural ventilation by drawing air upward toward a rooflight. Combined with an increased ceiling height in the living area and opposing openings, this strategy enables passive cooling.

Environmental performance is supported through a ventilated timber facade, strategically placed openings for passive solar gain, photovoltaic panels, and a ground-source heat pump with summer cooling capacity. These systems contribute to reduced energy demand and increased operational efficiency.

For the internal organization, the design team at kit architects follows a clear vertical distribution. The ground floor contains two main rooms connected to the garden via sliding doors. Bedrooms and shared spaces are located on the first floor, while the upper level includes a library, workspace, and an additional bedroom with an ensuite.

elevation south

view from the village center

elevation north

elevation west

dining area

concrete core with vertical void

living room

concrete staircase with vertical void

attic – door to the master bedroom

attic – study

study – panoramic window

project info:

name: Tower House
architect: kit architects | @kitarchitects

location: Rhine Valley, St. Gallen, Switzerland

photographer: Till Forrer

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom

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