Berlin is best known for its modern and contemporary architecture. However, if you ever meander through its streets and the neighbouring areas, you will see an eclectic mix of styles, forms and materials. If you find yourself on a small peninsula in western Berlin in Germany surrounded by water and forest, you might chance upon the recently completed ‘Lake House’ by Danish architect Sigurd Larsen. The house, contrary to what its name might imply, is not a residential architecture, but a sports and wellness retreat that follows a nature-conscious architectural approach.

This timber architecture project stands out not only for its innovative design but also for its deep connection to the surrounding natural environment. It features five sequentially staggered buildings or ‘houses’ that mimic the form of traditional boathouses. Facing the water, these houses integrate seamlessly into their picturesque setting while offering a versatile space for various activities, from wellness treatments to workshops.

The architectural vision behind The Lake House is grounded in a nature-focused philosophy. The residential design reflects the local vernacular through its use of timber structures and pitched roofs, reminiscent of many boathouses that dot lakeshores in the region. This is a deliberate choice that respects the scale of existing buildings in the immediate surroundings of the site, but also enhances the retreat's integration into its environment. The staggered arrangement of the five buildings allows for flexibility in programming, accommodating diverse activities such as conferences, therapy sessions and outdoor workshops.

Wood serves as the primary material used throughout the project. The slender wooden columns that support the glass facades echo the tall, leaning trunks of nearby pine trees, creating a seamless visual relationship between architecture and the nature surrounding it.

Each building features a distinct pitched roof that contributes to a unified silhouette. The overlapping design creates visual interest while serving functional purposes such as rainwater drainage and maximising natural light within the interiors.

The use of the large glass panels facilitates an immersive experience with nature by providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. This transparency invites natural light into the spaces, enhancing the meditative atmosphere that The Lake House aims to cultivate.

The layout of the vernacular architecture project is thoughtfully designed to support various functions while maintaining an intimate ambience. Each building serves a specific purpose.

The southernmost building houses guest apartments across two levels, each offering stunning views and direct access to nature. These spaces encourage relaxation and rejuvenation, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the tranquil setting.

The next structure acts as a culinary hub and features an open-space kitchen at its heart, fostering community interaction among guests. With ample seating and flexible configurations, this space serves as a gathering point for shared meals and socialisation.

At the core of The Lake House stands its tallest structure, housing a grand hall that serves as both an exhibition space and a venue for sports, events and gatherings. This multipurpose space can be adapted for various occasions through movable furniture and adaptable wall elements, inviting fluidity and dynamic reinvention throughout the year.

The Wellness Centre is in the fourth building, offering a sauna with breathtaking views of the surrounding nature. Additionally, it features a secluded meditation room that provides privacy for contemplation and mindfulness practices.

The fifth house features the ‘therapy studios’ and is designed to receive natural light from the north and includes dedicated studios and therapy rooms. Here, guests immerse in healing and therapeutic practices while remaining attuned to the serene natural atmosphere outside.

One of the most striking aspects of The Lake House is its seamless integration with nature. The careful selection of locations encompassed by water and forest ensures that visitors experience peace and calm away from urban life. Larsen's design philosophy emphasises this connection; he notes that "those who have ever spent a mild summer evening under old Berlin Street trees know the magic of the setting sun.”

The interplay between indoor and outdoor spaces enhances this experience further. Large windows frame views of lush greenery and shimmering water, while outdoor terraces provide sheltered areas for relaxation.

The Lake House by Sigurd Larsen reflects a shift towards wellness-focused architecture, effortlessly coalescing with its natural surroundings while fulfilling modern needs. Through its innovative use of materials, flexible spatial arrangements and respect for nature, it creates a serene retreat where guests can recharge both mind and body. This project showcases how architecture can support holistic living in our increasingly hectic lives.

Project Details

Name: The Lake House
Location: Berlin, Germany
Typology: Health and Wellness Architecture
Client: N.A
Architect: Sigurd Larsen
Design Team: N.A
Collaborators:
Facades: MHT Baugesellschaft mbh
Carpentry: Offcut Berlin
Landscape Cosultancy: IKW - Ingenieurbiologische Kultur- und Wasserbau GmbH
Pile foundation: Stump-Franki Spezialtiefbau GmbH
Excavation: Detrahimus Erdbau GmbH
Foundation: Caerus Construction GmbH
Static Engineer: Ingenieurbüro Glosch (foundation) und Josef Kolb AG (wooden structure)
Prüfstatik: Specht Kalleja + Partner beratende Ingenieure GmbH
Fire protection and building physics: Arup Deutschland GmbH
Area: N.A
Year of Completion: 2024