Traditional farm

Houses have been made from wood for centuries — the craft with this original material has continued to evolve over this long period of time. Many different styles, work methods and techniques have been perpetuated in homes around the world. Some of them are so outstanding that they have been listed as historic monuments. Just like this old farm, located on a small hill — detached and completely surrounded by unspoiled nature and the mountains.

EHAM was hired to restore the woodwork in this venerable home and to resurrect its former rustic charm. We approach this listed house with respect and expertise — through the meticulous selection of the right materials and a scaled-down approach, we were able to restore the traditional character of this farm. By using old spruce wood, we materially and stylistically tap into the history of the house and continue to tell the long story that lives within the fabric of the building. At the same time, the materials used in the restoration can also be found in the modern additions.

We preserved the incomparable effect of the listed craftsmanship in the impressive parlor and minimally touched up and strengthened it within the scope of possibilities. Additionally, we reworked and renovated the centuries-old wooden floors. The materials of the new table in the parlor resemble the original combination of steel and softwood. In this way, this venerable space is complemented by stylistically timeless elements.

The layout of the remodeled kitchen provides space for family communication; the style of the newly installed kitchen unit is based on traditional coffering, yet still offers a contemporary layout. Additional storage space and work surfaces were created with a small back-kitchen and the repurposing of a room niche. The new kitchen table rests on trestles and is based on the style and height of a workbench. This also creates a place for time spent together — whether it’s cooking, drinking or just talking. The kitchen and parlor become welcoming, social spaces that day after day are a low-key reminder of this farm’s long history.

We are convinced that tradition and progress do not have to be mutually exclusive. Because in joinery they meet and open up a unique design level in balanced interaction. This unique farm is a successful example of the aesthetic coexistence of centuries-old spaces and timeless design concepts.

Photography: Sofie Latour
Remodeling, 2022, Upper Bavaria