The country house on the Spree is idyllically situated in the landscape and is part of a larger ensemble of a former agricultural farm. The original fieldstone house was gradually extended with brickwork, leaving the historic layers visibly readable on the exterior and giving the building the special charm of evolved architecture. The goal of the renovation is to preserve the rustic character of the former barn during a sensitive conversion of the roof structure while carefully reinforcing the building’s structural fabric.
The historic roof structure has been structurally secured, and a wood protection assessment has been carried out. Any boron-affected upper layers of the beams are replaced, planed, or sealed, while the historic substance is largely preserved. Insulating the attic creates additional living space, while the interplay of old and new beams remains visible. The house receives a new roof design: a long shed dormer replaces the existing one, while another is harmoniously developed from the existing structure. Wherever possible, the renovation aims to reuse the existing roof tiles.
Inside, a new void creates an open connection between the two floors. Beams removed for this purpose are all reused elsewhere where beam sections need replacement. Understated built-in furniture complements the character of individual rooms, and wooden surfaces convey the atmosphere of the rural idyll indoors.
The building unfolds in dialogue with the surrounding landscape. All previously closed openings are reopened, and additional ones are carefully placed to frame views, light, and atmosphere. These openings are deliberately positioned to stage light, views, and ambiance, such as the fireplace in front of the window overlooking the Spree. In this way, the country house combines the authenticity of the historic structure with contemporary comfort in a harmonious composition of old and new.