Living in a Barn

The barn is located in the heart of the scattered settlement. About 40 meters to the southeast lies the Roman Catholic St. Anton Church. The barn has a beautiful structure and possesses a calmness in its placement. It is not listed as a heritage building, which allows for more substantial interventions in its form or even new construction. The barn has grown additively over the years, resulting in its complex form. The ramp spanning between two silos to access the hayloft is particularly striking. In the rural village structure, one quickly notices that it consists mainly of residential houses and farmsteads. Residential buildings are usually oriented with their gable side facing the valley, thus showing their face. Industrial buildings such as stables and barns were positioned with their eaves side facing the valley, as their volume would otherwise encroach too deeply into the terrain. However, St. Anton Church was again oriented like a residential building to create a personal connection. The conversion is located somewhat off the quiet Giswil and harmoniously integrates into the landscape. With its redesigned gable, which like the surrounding residential buildings faces the valley, the house presents a stylish expression that appears both timeless and modern. Although the house's footprint does not differ significantly from the surrounding buildings, its design is nevertheless a homage to the environment and gives it a new splendor. The conversion is thus not only functional but also aesthetically appealing and enriches the environment with a contemporary touch.