Interpretation of the second escape route single-family house NRW

And in case of doubt, I would rely on fire protection instead of "it'll be fine." However, despite my wife's aesthetic concerns, I had smoke and fire detectors installed everywhere and escape ladders in the children's rooms. A house fire where not everyone gets out is my biggest nightmare.

It is definitely not about leaving everything at "it'll be fine," although I am not as panicked as you described. But everything should be correct, no question. There are 1x1m windows that can be opened on every facade. However, that does not seem to be enough.

How big is the window at the top right? Couldn’t it be designed as an openable element? Or is there a chic air space?

This is a fixed glazing and in the size (140 x 140) it is not feasible as a tilt-and-turn window. We have tried not to plan expensive air (spaces).

And for the very lazy ones, here is the latest planning status.
https://www.hausbau-forum.de/threads/grundrissentwurf-einfamilienhaus-165qm-ohne-keller-auf-400qm-grundstueck.45915/post-657941

https://www.hausbau-forum.de/threads/grundrissentwurf-einfamilienhaus-165qm-ohne-keller-auf-400qm-grundstueck.45915/post-658020

Why shouldn't that be possible in that size? My parents also had windows that size. The windows were just a bit impractical if you wanted to open them fully.

Why shouldn't that be feasible in that size? My parents also had windows that size. The windows were only a bit impractical when you wanted to fully open them.

It also doesn't work because of the parapet height. There would have to be a French balcony in front. (No-go) 1mx1m doesn't seem to be enough, right?

1mx1m doesn't seem to be enough. Right?

90x120 are mandatory. Although the orientation does not matter. As far as I know, there are no exceptions (these only exist for existing buildings).