611 – Vintner's House

The diagonal braces of timber frame buildings were for stabilising the structure. In the house from Richterswil they were more than guarantees for the safety of the construction. They were arranged in prominent geometric patterns and painted to serve as elements of design. More braces were used than were required by statics. The facade is a fi ne example of 18th century developments in timber frame construction.

The characterising timber framing is reinforced at the corners by decorative iron strapping. The raised and decorated window shutters are also prominent. On the rear side, protruding sandstone lintels protect the windows from rainwater. Inside, a steep stair leads up to the attic. The chimney is fitted with a smoke chamber: a small house for hanging sausage and bacon. The smoke rendered the meat tasty and longer-lasting. There was a crane for lifting faggots (bundled twigs as fuel for heating in the tile stove) to the attic floor.