This 19th-century barn, nestled in the serene countryside of Uckermark, a small village north of Berlin, Germany, has been masterfully transformed into a charming holiday home and a guest annex. Berlin’s very own Thomas Kroeger Architekt was tasked with the intricate conversion, and the result is nothing short of awe-inspiring. The renovation revolves around a grand hall that now occupies the towering expanse of what was once the barn. This ambitious project entails the preservation of the barn’s inherent charm and character, with the integration of contemporary elements seamlessly intertwined with the structure’s historical roots.
The focal point of this exquisite renovation is undoubtedly the immense hall, which graces the double height of the original barn. Before its transformation, this space was home to decayed beams and remnants of the previous owner’s dwelling. However, a series of tall, graceful arched openings were thoughtfully introduced into the facade. These openings now feature substantial wooden doors that can be effortlessly folded back, creating a harmonious connection between the central hall and the flourishing orchard outside. This ingenious design breathes life into the building, making the transition from the inside to the outside feel like an unbroken continuum of nature.
The architects have successfully managed to retain the rustic allure of the barn by leaving wooden beams and columns exposed throughout the core of the structure. This not only reinforces the historical essence of the building but also showcases the inherent beauty of the crude trusses. The intention was clear, as the architects aimed to make sure that, even after the conversion, the barn would not overtly resemble a holiday home but rather retain the appearance of its barn roots. From the street side, the distinction is so subtle that one would be hard-pressed to decipher the barn’s transformation into a holiday home and guest annex.
One of the most striking features of this magnificent barn conversion is an oversized red brick fireplace that stands as a testament to the building’s historical charm. This hearth, complete with integrated seating, graces one side of the paved courtyard. Two inviting benches are thoughtfully set into niches inside the hearth, allowing this space to be used and cherished during the colder winter months. The clever design of the house ensures that the great hall remains unheated, surrounded by an enclosed and heated section of rooms. This arrangement means that, during the winter months, only the smaller, more intimate areas of the house are utilized, creating a cozy atmosphere reminiscent of birds’ nests.
The family holiday home occupies one side of the central hall, while the guest annex is situated behind the grand fireplace on the other side. Wooden steps lead from either side of the hall, guiding visitors to two elevated living spaces. An open-plan lounge and dining area, graced by a glass wall, defines the family home, providing a seamless connection to the outdoors. Privacy is maintained with a timber wall that shields the guest annex from prying eyes.
The family home boasts a stage-like platform at its base, where a closet for shoes and coats and a kitchen pantry are conveniently located. Inside, a wooden pyramid, carefully constructed over the living room, frames a skylight and creates an intimate and protected atmosphere within the double-height space. The slatted design of this pyramid-shaped hood is not merely decorative but also serves a functional purpose by allowing light to cascade into the stairwell and the upper-floor bathroom. This architectural element lends a certain scale and intimacy to the space, which is particularly essential in creating a homely and inviting environment.
A pristine white staircase leads to the upper floor, where three bedrooms, bathrooms, and studies are thoughtfully spread around the edge of the central courtyard. A linking corridor with glazed walls offers captivating views of the atrium below. In the bathrooms, blue and white tiles form a charming floral motif, and a mirror, nestled within an arched opening, reflects the natural light streaming in from the skylight above the living area, creating a bright and airy ambiance.
On the other side of the barn, the self-contained guest annex presents its own unique charm. It has a separate entrance located within the brick gable, ensuring the privacy and independence of its occupants. The ground floor is dedicated to a spacious living and dining area, while two cozy bedrooms and a well-appointed bathroom occupy the upper floor. The clever design of the chimney breast, characterized by perforated brickwork, effectively screens the linking corridor from the family residence, enhancing the privacy of both the family home and the guest annex.
In sum, this 19th-century barn conversion in rural Germany is a true masterpiece of architectural innovation and preservation. Thomas Kroeger Architekt has seamlessly blended the old with the new, ensuring that the barn’s historical charm remains intact while infusing it with modern comforts and functionality. The grand hall, exquisite fireplace, and cleverly designed living spaces make this holiday home and guest annex a perfect retreat for those seeking a harmonious blend of history and contemporary living in the serene German countryside. It stands as a testament to the architects’ dedication to preserving the past while embracing the future.
Photos by Thomas Heimann.