Architects Johanna and Gregor Schuberth of Schuberth und Schuberth designed the Summer Cottage Pötzleinsdorf as a vibrant and practical retreat for a young family. Completed in 2019, the small house is situated on a hillside plot at the edge of the Vienna Woods, within the distinct allotment garden settlement of Pötzleinsdorf. Rather than conforming to the varied and often chaotic architectural styles of its neighbors, the design offers a creative commentary by arranging three varying cubes into a spatial collage. These cubes are distinct on the exterior, combining materials like classic larch wood and corrugated metal with different colors and finishes. The interior of the cottage, however, unites these varied volumes into a single, cohesive space, maximizing the use of its limited 50 square meters. The design is a triumph of function over convention, allowing for cooking, reading, working, and sleeping to occur in a seamless spatial flow, unconstrained by traditional room definitions. The material palette for the interior is deliberately modest, featuring three-layer wood panels for the walls, linoleum flooring, and upholstered foam cubes that double as a sofa. This simplicity is contrasted by a vivid and playful color concept that energizes the internal space. While the exterior is characterized by natural and more subdued tones, the interior is a dynamic mix of hot orange-red and cool green-blue, complemented by accent colors like coral and light blue. The final effect is a home that joyfully captures the spirit of creating a small, personal kingdom within a larger community. The design has received notable recognition, including an award at the wienwood 21 competition. Credits Architects: Johanna Schuberth and Gregor Schuberth Design and Execution Plans: Viktoria Steininger and Florian Haim. Photographs: Christoph Panzer