The Wandering House, designed by architect Lionel Ballmer, is a stunning new home located in Nendaz, Switzerland. Completed in 2025, this 100-square-meter residence offers a fresh take on combining old-world charm with modern living.
A Perfect Balance of Old and New
The project started as an effort to convert a family barn into a house. However, due to space limitations, the team decided to build a small new home next to the barn instead. This clever design keeps the barn’s historical charm intact while creating a private garden between the two buildings.
Floating Design That Respects Nature
The house appears to “float” on stilts, which reduces its impact on the ground and preserves the surrounding natural environment. This unique design also raises an interesting question: is the barn an annex to the house, or is the house an addition to the barn?
Traditional Look, Modern Feel
The house is covered in charred wood, a nod to the weathered beams of traditional Swiss barns. Its foundation is made of recycled concrete, blending old-fashioned style with modern materials. This design makes the house timeless, fitting seamlessly into its surroundings.
Open, Flexible Interior
Inside, the house is built for flexibility. A central core divides the space and makes it easy to adapt to different needs. Large glass windows offer breathtaking views of the mountains, garden, and barn, creating a strong connection to the outdoors. The main living spaces – kitchen, dining, living room, and office – are spread across three levels, keeping everything visually connected.
A Sustainable Home
The Wandering House was built with sustainability in mind. Its structure uses local timber, including cross-laminated spruce and larch wood. Solar panels on the roof and a rainwater collection system make it even more eco-friendly.
The Wandering House is an architectural masterpiece that shows how modern homes can honor tradition while embracing the future. Lionel Ballmer has created a warm, sustainable, and visually striking home that fits perfectly with its natural and historical setting.
This house isn’t just a place to live – it’s a beautiful example of how architecture can bring together the past and the present in harmony.
Image Courtesy: Lionel Ballmer
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