28. July 2026

House in Nofels: Densified Building in Earth and Timber

The prefabricated elements can be placed like a conventional timber construction © Lehmit GmbH
The single-family house in Nofels is defined by clear, functional architecture and the use of regional materials. The building responds to the conditions of its site: because of the existing development to the east, a compact form was chosen for an infill development. A low connecting structure links the new building to the existing one, serves as the main entrance and leads into the garden via a gently rising ramp. A terrace on the south side extends the living space and offers a shared place to gather outdoors.
From the outside only the timber construction is visible; the earth-and-timber slabs are hidden inside. © Lehmit GmbH

The two-storey new building sits on a raft foundation and combines contemporary construction with traditional elements. The load-bearing structure consists of a prefabricated timber construction, complemented by earth-and-timber slabs. This combination allows for a short construction time, excellent insulation and a healthy indoor climate. The earth building materials used come from the region and support energy efficiency as well as living comfort. An extensive green roof improves the microclimate and increases thermal protection. The integrated photovoltaic system enables self-sufficiency with renewable energy and lastingly reduces the ecological footprint of the house.

The primary beams were placed on steel girders in order to keep the lintel as slender as possible. © Lehmit GmbH

The project in Nofels understands itself as an example of densified, resource-efficient building. Through the deliberate use of local materials and the combination of traditional and modern techniques, a house emerges that unites ecological responsibility with contemporary living.

The wall elements and the slab elements were built with diagonal sheathing in order to avoid glue as far as possible. © Lehmit GmbH

The team at Lehmit and Lehm Ton Erde was able to gain further experience on this project and to make optimisations in production. Every project brings us new ideas and lets us test improved details and processes.