Nagelfabrik Rübenau

The Ore Mountains have a long tradition as a recreational region. Once a thriving destination, it has
largely faded from view since the fall of the Berlin Wall. This project aims to promote sustainable
tourism and revive the area’s former appeal.
The freestanding building is located just before the German–Czech border, secluded in a remote valley
between meadows and forests, far from any neighbours. Originally built as a nail factory, it underwent
multiple alterations and extensions over time. Since the factory closure in 1993 the building has stood
mostly vacant and was now transformed into a holiday home for up to ten guests.
The starting point of the design was the original 1906 factory, with its simple and powerful form: a
three-storey building, each floor tailored to the functional needs of production.
A century of additions was removed to restore the original factory volume, while the timber roof storey was reconstructed. All
new functions required for the building’s updated use are accommodated in a new extension that cuts
into the slope and intersects with the existing house. Following the topography, it remains largely
unobtrusive. Opening towards both the valley and the main house, the extension is defined by a
curved aluminium façade that reflects the landscape and the life within.
Bedrooms and living spaces
are housed in the existing structure, while the new extension contains everthing connected to water.
The reconstructed attic is a flexible space for group activities, usable both by guests and the local
community.
Due to contamination from its former industrial use, the existing building had to be fully stripped. A new
load-bearing structure of regional spruce was inserted within the preserved shell to form the new
floors. The attic, destroyed by fire in 1923, was reconstructed based on a historical photograph. The
quarry-stone exterior walls were insulated with wood fibre and clay.
Energy is supplied largely on-site by the original hydroelectric plant with an 80-year-old turbine and a
rooftop solar array, making the building self-sufficient. Construction was carried out by regional
companies, using many materials sourced locally and drawing on expertise specific to
the Ore
Mountains.