Z-Haus / Atelier Waechter

With a design strategy to maximize outdoor living space and minimize building footprint, the Z-Haus, winner of 2010 AIA Portland Design Award – Built Citation, consists of two attached row houses constructed on a 50’ x 100’ urban infill lot. Atelier Waechter thoughtfully designed each house, made up of 6 rooms that are offset at every half story and smoothly joined by a series of half flight stairs. More photographs and drawings of this award winning project following the break.

Architects: Atelier Waechter
Location: Portland, Oregon
Structural Engineer: Froelich Consulting Engineers
Builder: Owner Builder
Owner: Ben Waechter & Daria Crymes
Project Area: 2,800 sqf (each unit)
Project Year: 2008
Photographs: Stephen Miller

section

From any room one can simultaneously view the next level up and the level below, vertically unifying all living spaces. With one room per level, hallways are obsolete and useable square footage is maximized. Sliding wall panels are used instead of conventional doors to maintain the free flow of space, provide privacy when needed and allow for changing family needs and size. This organization creates a zig-zagging pattern in section view, hence the name Z-Haus.

floor plans

The six rooms are organized around a central core that contains the mechanical and plumbing functions of the house. Kitchen, bathrooms, laundry room and mechanical room are located within this core. This central, stacked organization allows for a single vertical chase and for venting to occur through the roof leaving the skin pure, punctuated only by the recessed white window openings.