# 18th-Century Farmhouse Transformed into Modern Retreat in Germany PUR+ Architekten blends historic preservation with contemporary living in rural Eifel. - **Source:** [ArchDaily Global](https://brifing.si/source/b856ce4a-b51b-4705-954b-40620e034caa) - **Published:** 2026-09-14 - **Topic:** [Design & UX](https://brifing.si/c/design) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/f044e060-baaf-461a-8417-15fea30fa183 ## Historic Context The Haus Südeifel project involves the transformation of an 18th-century heritage-listed farmstead in Germany's southern Eifel region. The original structure represents the traditional Einhaus typology, combining living quarters and barn under one roof since circa 1700. This architectural style was common in rural German communities, where agricultural and residential functions coexisted in compact footprints. The preservation effort maintains the building's historical significance while adapting it for contemporary use. ## Design Approach PUR+ Architekten's core concept focused on reviving the architectural clarity of the historic structure while creating a modern living environment. The team, led by Christopher Frechen, Katharina Mentler, and Stefan Mohnen, carefully balanced preservation with innovation. Their design maintains the building's original character while introducing contemporary elements that meet current living standards. The 350m² project demonstrates how historic rural architecture can be sensitively adapted for modern residential use without losing its cultural identity. ## Material Strategy The architects employed a thoughtful material palette combining traditional and modern elements. Wood and concrete feature prominently in the renovation, creating a dialogue between old and new construction techniques. The material choices respect the building's agricultural origins while providing durability and thermal performance expected in contemporary homes. This approach ensures the structure remains rooted in its rural setting while meeting 21st-century living requirements. ## Spatial Organization The redesign creates flexible living spaces within the historic framework. The original farmhouse volume now accommodates modern residential functions, while the adjacent barn area has been repurposed to complement the home's new use as a retreat. The layout respects the building's original circulation patterns while introducing open-plan elements characteristic of contemporary design. This spatial reorganization maintains the building's architectural integrity while improving functionality. ## Cultural Significance The project preserves an important example of vernacular German architecture. Einhaus farmsteads represent a disappearing typology that once dominated rural landscapes. By adapting rather than replacing this structure, the architects maintain a physical connection to the region's agricultural history. The design serves as a case study in how historic rural buildings can be given new life while retaining their cultural value and architectural character. ## Environmental Considerations The adaptive reuse approach demonstrates sustainable building practices. By repurposing the existing structure, the project avoided the environmental impact of demolition and new construction. The material choices and thermal upgrades improve energy efficiency while respecting the building's heritage. This strategy shows how historic preservation can align with contemporary sustainability goals in architecture. ## Architectural Team PUR+ Architekten brought specialized expertise in historic preservation to the project. The firm, with lead architects Christopher Frechen, Katharina Mentler, and Stefan Mohnen, has experience blending traditional and modern design elements. Their approach emphasizes contextual sensitivity and material honesty. The Haus Südeifel project showcases their ability to navigate the challenges of working with protected historic structures while delivering functional modern spaces. ## Project Impact This renovation sets a precedent for rural architectural preservation in Germany. Completed in 2026, the project demonstrates how historic farmsteads can be adapted to contemporary lifestyles without compromising their heritage value. The design successfully bridges centuries of architectural evolution, offering a model for similar preservation efforts in rural communities. It highlights the ongoing relevance of traditional building typologies in modern contexts. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.archdaily.com/1184860/house-sudeifel-pur-plus-architekten — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._