WOLKENBERG
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An Architectural Masterpiece
In the north-east of Switzerland unfolds a spectacular valley landscape that, as part of the cross-border Lake Constance metropolitan region, ranks among the most economically dynamic and culturally diverse areas of Central Europe. Together with Vorarlberg, Liechtenstein, as well as the St. Gallen–Lake Constance and Werdenberg regions, the St. Gallen Rhine Valley forms an internationally networked economic and cultural space offering an exceptional quality of life.
The municipality of Rebstein nestles against the sunlit slopes of the western edge of the valley. Beyond it rise the wooded ridges of the Appenzell Pre-Alps, gently descending towards Lake Constance near Rorschach. From these hills, sweeping views open across the broad expanse of the Rhine Valley towards the majestic peaks of the Rätikon range, the Tyrolean Alps on clear days, and the Alpstein massif crowned by the Säntis.
Approximately 110 metres above Rebstein, where meadows and forests begin to merge into the Appenzell foothills, lies Villa Wolkenberg—an architectural masterpiece with swimming pool and truly spectacular views. Built in 1971 and meticulously maintained ever since, this architect-designed residence impresses with a holistic design concept that extends through its interior detailing and carefully considered spatial composition. To this day, the house remains remarkably forward-looking in its organisation, materiality and harmonious integration into the landscape.
Despite its peaceful hillside setting, the village centre with shops, schools and public services is within easy reach. Excellent transport connections via the nearby A13 motorway and the railway stations of Heerbrugg, Altstätten and Rebstein-Marbach ensure swift access to St. Gallen, Dornbirn, Bregenz, Vaduz and Altenrhein Airport. Zurich, as well as the major ski and leisure regions of Graubünden, are also comfortably accessible.
Profile
1971
Continuously well maintained
Plot 1519
- Road / access way: 655 m²
- Garden area: 3,547 m²
- Arable land / meadow / pasture: 1,872 m²
- Forest: 4,108 m²
- Other paved areas: 344 m²
- Buildings: 390 m²
- Flowing watercourse: 202 m²
- Garage: 47 m²
Total area: 11,118 m²
Plot 1083 (subject to the Federal Act on Rural Land Rights, BGBB)
- Road / access way: 91 m²
- Garden area: 76 m²
- Arable land / meadow / pasture: 10,661 m²
- Forest: 46 m²
- Other paved areas: 22 m²
Total area: 10,896 m²
ca. 579 m2
ca. 190.5 m2
ca. 769.5 m2
14.5
Mehrere Aussenparkplätze, 4 Garageneinstellplätze
Objekt & Architecture
- Iconic architect-designed villa from the 1970s
- Designed by architect Hanspeter Nüesch
- Scandinavian modernist architectural style
- A significant example of post-war modernist architecture
- Not listed in the inventory of protected heritage buildings
- High-quality materials throughout
Location & Surroundings
- Landscape design by Andres Sulzer
- Exclusive residential setting within an agricultural zone, with far-reaching views over the Rhine Valley
- Property accessed via a private road
- The Rappentobelbach stream runs through the wooded part of the estate
Pool technology
The property at a glance
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Property closed!
requestsWhere lake, Alps and Rhine Valley meet, an almost limitless range of leisure opportunities unfolds. Walking and cycling paths begin right on the doorstep, leading through the gentle landscapes of Appenzell and up into the foothills. From the surrounding ridges, one can often enjoy brilliant sunshine in autumn and winter while the valley below lies beneath a sea of fog. In snowy conditions, the region transforms into a tranquil winter landscape with cross-country ski trails and smaller ski areas.
Designed by Swiss architect Hanspeter Nüesch (1924–2015), with partial site supervision by Hans Schmid, »Villa Wolkenberg« expresses its architectural strength through a striking building mass that appears to emerge organically from the hillside. The elongated roof façade remains largely closed, while the steeper valley-facing side opens dramatically to the landscape with expansive glazing and five distinctive concrete beams. Materials such as timber, exposed concrete, natural stone and Appenzell larch shingle cladding anchor the building firmly within its natural surroundings.
Accessed via a private access road, the villa is set within extensive grounds framed by forest and meadows. Inside, an open and flowing floor plan defines the spatial experience. A generous entrance hall leads into subtly structured living areas. The heart of the home is the impressive living hall with fireplace, rising to the full height of the building and visually merging with the landscape through elongated glass façades.
Custom-designed built-in elements—from lighting fixtures and doors to bespoke furniture and seating — are integral to the architectural concept. Wolkenberg is a habitable sculpture and an exceptional time document of early 1970s architecture.
On the upper floor, a gallery connects several individually designed children’s, guest and study rooms, as well as the generous principal suite with dressing room, bathroom and viewing balcony. A striking mural by artist Josef Ebnöther (1937–2025) further enhances the artistic dimension of this architectural ensemble.
Finally, the garden level opens to a spacious wellness area with sauna, fitness room and swimming pool, all oriented towards the landscape. Floor-to-ceiling glazing dissolves the boundary between inside and outside in a remarkable way. Immersing oneself in the pool becomes a moment of complete unity with the surrounding nature high above the Rhine Valley.
THE NOBILIS ESTATE PROMISE
