Sustainable lifestyle in Upper Franconia
Old barn. Modern technology.
Perfect for living and working.
The countryside is a great place to live. Architect André Rösch thought so too and converted an old barn in Redwitz an der Rodach into a comfortable, modern retreat. With nature right on his doorstep, he placed particular emphasis on sustainability. Also when it came to the heating concept.
Energy-saving living
"When it came to heating, a heat pump was the only option. You don't need a chimney, have no connection costs, are independent of oil and gas - and a heat pump is no work. In my job, I simply don't have time to deal with the procurement and storage of woodchippings, for example".
André Rösch,43, was already involved with building ecology and sustainability during his studies. Before returning to his home country, he worked as an architect in New York, Hong Kong, London, Sydney, Berlin and Zurich.
In harmony with nature
Take a barn from the 19th century and convert it into a residential and office building in line with the latest ecological findings. André Rösch has skilfully combined tradition and modernity on 190 square metres.
The building is visually characterised by high, open rooms with lots of wood and glass. There is nothing superfluous either architecturally or in terms of interior design. The materials used are of the highest quality and emphasise the natural lifestyle.
Focus on ecology
In addition to the ecological aspect, the aesthetics were particularly important to André Rösch: "I don't want an ugly block on the house. That's why I chose the 'System M Comfort' heat pump from Dimplex.
It not only impresses with its high energy efficiency, but also with its natural, high-quality larch wood panelling. I'm also planning a photovoltaic system, which will make the electricity for the heat pump even more environmentally friendly."
Technology that inspires
"The indoor unit of the heat pump is as compact as a large refrigerator and impresses with its sleek appearance. The operation itself is absolutely simple, like a smartphone.
I also opted for the all-round carefree package: The system is connected to the internet via LAN. This means that Dimplex can access the key parameters when servicing is required and even make recommendations for optimisation," says Rösch.
André Rösch: "A sustainable lifestyle also includes thinking about energy, heating and air conditioning concepts in our own four walls.
After all, we also want to leave our children an environment worth living in."