KM Architektur’s Geothermal Heilbronn House is a Timber-Clad Home in the Forests of Germany

The Heilbronn House by <a href="http://www.k-m-architektur.com/" target="_blank">KM Architektur</a> is an exemplary simple and efficient eco home in Germany. The three-level residence is oriented to the south and enjoys both the sun and the views of the surrounding area. Passive solar design is combined with <a href="http://inhabitat.com/tag/solar-hot-water/">solar hot water heating</a>, a <a href="http://inhabitat.com/tag/geothermal/">geothermal</a> system and natural materials like glass, copper and wood.

Located on a slope at the edge of a forest on the outskirts of Heilbronn, this three-story house is perfectly positioned to take in its surroundings.

The ground floor, which is buried into the hillside, contains a one-car garage, a guest room, a bathroom and a fitness room.

A staircase leads up to an open floor plan kitchen and dining and living areas with two bedrooms and an office at the end.

The top floor contains the master suite and access to a large deck.

Deep roof overhangs provide shade during the summer.

The Heilbronn House's south-facing side is wrapped with floor-to-ceiling glass that allows sunlight to warm the interior in the winter.

The backside of the house.

The master bathroom.

The open floor plan dining area connects into the kitchen and to the living area.

<a href="http://www.k-m-architektur.com/" target="_blank">KM Architektur</a> chose simple and natural materials like concrete, glass, larch wood cladding and copper.

A <a href="http://inhabitat.com/tag/solar-hot-water/">solar hot water system</a> on the roof provides domestic hot water, and a geothermal system provides energy-efficient heating and cooling.

A central fireplace in the living areas provides additional heating when necessary.

Front view of the Heilbronn House.