Midland

The Swiss Mittelland and area of Kt. AG was one of the traditional areas for the post-and-beam structure, also known as Hochstud. Hochstud is the term used to describe the three tall upright posts which support the ridge beams. The characteristic, steeply pitched hipped roof (pitched on all four sides) was covered with straw.

Long suitable rye straw was used for the covering in the Mittelland. To ensure that the straw did not rot, it was important that the rainwater ran off quickly, which necessitated roofs which were as steep as possible. Straw roofs are rainproof, cheap, provide good insulation and last for more than 30 years. However, straw does unfortunately present a fire risk, so that the straw has increasingly been replaced since the middle of the 19th century, first by nailed shingles and then by tiles, as the owners have become more prosperous.

Unlike half-timbered buildings, the filling between the timber beams of the walls is made from thick fir planks.

The “Stöckli”
The Bernese house often includes a “Stöckli”, an ancillary building which the parents retire to once they have passed the farm and business to the younger generation. Also typical of these houses is the “Ründi”, the rounded frontage.