Nestled in Berlin, Germany, the Wooden House by the Lake is a house designed by Transstruktura – Architektur Stadt Objekt in 2024. This compact property features a geometric form accented by a structured wooden facade, and generous windows that frame views of the lake and surrounding trees, connecting indoor spaces with nature and providing passive solar heating in winter and external shade in summer.
The Wooden House by the Lake is located in a historic fishing village on the outskirts of Berlin, right by the water. Its compact, black cubic form stands out while harmonizing with nature through the use of natural materials. Large floor-to-ceiling windows on the east side provide an unobstructed view of the lake and surrounding trees. The simple geometric design is accentuated by a structured wooden facade. Expansive windows on the east and south sides allow ample natural light to enter, while the garden and mature trees provide privacy. The terrace-facing window front features side panels that can be opened, adding a sense of dynamism to the overall design.
The street-facing facade is more minimalistic, featuring a square window that mirrors the openness of the lake side. The north side remains mostly closed, with a black entrance door and small windows hidden behind wooden slats. Repeated window formats create a harmonious look throughout the building.
The material concept focuses on natural and sustainable resources. The exterior is made of black charred wood, refined using the traditional Shou Sugi Ban technique. Wooden planks of varying widths create a subtle and balanced texture.
From the outside, the house appears as a black cube, while the interior is bright and open. The clients, who appreciate art and design, wanted simple spaces where their art and design objects could stand out. The ground floor is an open-plan living and dining area, structured around a central core that houses the staircase, wardrobe, and bathroom. This layout creates two niches for the kitchen and entrance area. Large windows connect the indoor and outdoor spaces, offering views of the lake and garden.
Upstairs, there are three bedrooms, a bathroom, and a wardrobe and laundry room. Instead of a traditional hallway, the staircase leads to a quiet, bright space with a skylight, serving as a second living and working area. The children also love using this space for homework. The master bedroom and bathroom also feature large panoramic windows. A sliding door connects both rooms, creating a flowing space with an unobstructed lake view.
The large windows allow for passive solar heating in winter, while external blinds provide shade in summer without blocking the view. The flat roof is equipped with a photovoltaic system, and a heat pump supplies the underfloor heating. A polished concrete floor runs throughout all three levels, transitioning to a color-matched microcement floor in the bathrooms. A sculptural concrete staircase connects the floors.
Collaboration and Revisions Contribute to Conception
The house was built using timber frame construction with wooden beam ceilings and insulated with cellulose and wood fiber panels. Initially, the plan was to preserve the basement of an old 1920s bungalow, but deeper foundations proved unsustainable and costly. Instead, a new partial basement was built. Some materials from the old building were reused in the garden and for a shed. The wood from a felled pine was repurposed for a garden table with benches, and a new trees was planted.
The design was developed in close collaboration with the clients. The focus was on minimalist aesthetics, generous spaces, and a strong connection to nature. Different ideas were explored and refined using models, drawings, and sketches.
