Kinetic architecture is redefining how we experience living spaces, particularly in rural and suburban areas where the interplay between buildings and nature is most evident. The Open House near Bremen in Germany, designed by Poland-based practice KWK Promes, is an example of this innovative approach. Instead of merely occupying space, the house actively interacts with its surroundings, adapting to seasonal shifts, local wildlife and the varying rhythms of human activity. This philosophy represents a pivotal shift in contemporary architecture, highlighting the importance of flexibility, sustainability and a deep connection with the landscape.

This residential design project features moveable elements that adapt to both daily needs and environmental conditions. By allowing spaces to morph and shift according to the occupants' needs, the home stays seamlessly integrated into the landscape by offering modern comforts like adjustable living areas and flexible layouts that can transform as required. This approach underscores the potential of landscape architecture to be progressive and green, striking a balance between stability and change.

Located near a forest in a quiet village outside Bremen, the site of the Open House is usually serene, making it an ideal setting for a family home. However, its proximity to a sports venue means that when occasional sporting events happen, the calm is disrupted by an influx of visitors. The challenge for the architects was to design a home that could maintain its connection to the natural surroundings while offering the flexibility to provide privacy and security during these busy periods. Rather than options for a conventional fence, the solution came in the form of a moveable closure system that allows the house to adapt to its environment, preserving the natural migration routes of wildlife while giving the residents control over their level of exposure to the outside world.

Robert Konieczny, the founder of KWK Promes, mentions in the official release, "The investor was well aware of our previous mobile projects, so he readily accepted the proposal to incorporate a kinetic solution into his dream house. The concept drew inspiration from the surrounding buildings with distinct shutters and my experience from the Konieczny’s Ark, where I opted not to install a fence.” 

The design of the Open House integrates moveable walls that adjust to offer different levels of openness and privacy, reflecting the concept of evolving with its surroundings. These walls are not just functional elements; they create a dynamic interface between the interior and exterior spaces. Positioned away from the main structure, they create an unusual atrium that becomes a part of the surrounding meadow when open. The walls glide effortlessly on circular rails, allowing them to close and open independently of each other and in various configurations, enabling the home to respond dynamically to environmental conditions, including seasonal changes and varying privacy needs.

The residential architecture project is designed for a small family, with an emphasis on comfort, functionality and connection. The layout is open and fluid, with large windows that bring in ample natural light and offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It offers approximately 250 square metres of living space, including a garage with two bedrooms, a spacious living room, a mezzanine and a kitchen that serves as the heart of the home. The interior design focuses on creating a space that is both inviting and adaptable. The terrace, connected by sliding partitions, shifts effortlessly from a communal space to a more private retreat as needed.

These flexible enclosures redefine traditional concepts of space and privacy, becoming integral to the architectural narrative rather than static barriers. This flexibility is not just a practical feature; it also enhances the quality of life for the residents. The ability to adapt the space according to their needs allows them to engage with their surroundings in a more meaningful way. Whether it's enjoying the serenity of the forest or finding refuge during a busy sporting event, the house offers an environment that is both connected to and protected from the outside world.

The house’s construction materials are thoughtfully selected to blend traditional architecture with modern efficiency. A reed roof and whitewashed walls echo the vernacular architecture of the region, ensuring that it fits seamlessly within the context. The positioning of windows on the south, beneath the roof's overhang minimises heat gain during summer, naturally reducing the need for air conditioning. Additionally, the residential interiors are designed with custom ventilation slots at the roof’s peak, enabling warm air to escape, thereby promoting passive cooling and further improving the overall energy efficiency of the home.

The house's energy independence is further enhanced by photovoltaic panels, which generate electricity to power both the residence and the moveable wall mechanism. This commitment is a key feature of the project, reflecting the growing importance of eco-friendly architecture.

KWK Promes' exploration of mobile architecture began long before this project. The studio's work on the PLATO Contemporary Art Gallery in Ostrava, which was recognised as one of the top five buildings in the 2024 Mies van der Rohe Awards, showcased the potential of kinetic elements in architectural design. These elements offer practical solutions and create new possibilities for how spaces can be used and experienced.

The press release mentions that Konieczny reflected on the Safe House project, noting that many people associate it with the outer shell but overlook its core idea. He explained that when the two shutters reach the fence, the house connects with the public space, turning the garden into a private area. This realisation led him to see how moving elements could refine the space around the building. He drew inspiration from Philip Johnson’s 9 Ash Street House, which had long intrigued him and influenced his continued development of the concept. Safe House was an early stage in this journey, with the Open House representing the next evolution.

With the Open House nearing completion in 2025, this project highlights a future where homes are not merely static structures but are designed to evolve and interact with their built environment. The fusion of traditional and kinetic architectural elements here showcases a forward-thinking approach to landscape design, emphasising adaptability and connection.

This method of sustainable design signals a broader shift in contemporary architecture, where buildings are increasingly viewed as dynamic entities that interact with their environment. As this concept gains momentum, homes like this will likely become more common, embodying a perfect balance of innovation, tradition, and environmental responsiveness.