The traditional thatched architecture of the Smokehouse of Poggensee, located in Germany, transforms into a modern architectural sanctuary post renovation. The thatched-roofed house, dating back to 1829, is a stunning example of preserving the traditional rural elements while adding a modern touch to its design. The contemporary, minimalist design seamlessly blends with the 19th century rural heritage, making the original structural elements stand out.
The Smokehouse of Poggensee underwent three extensive renovations, including triple-glazed windows in 2019, a modern gas-heating system in 2022, a new front door, a kitchen door, and a main window door in 2025. These modern upgrades maintain a consistent indoor climate and protect against dampness and mold. The multiple renovations provide structural strength to the heritage building while enhancing the living space with radically reinventive interior design.
The monumental exterior of the historic building flaunts a traditional half-timbered frame and bricks. The massive, steep thatched roof creates an attention-grabbing silhouette, while the surrounding garden harmoniously blends architecture with nature. The sculptural shrubs and hedges frame the building while the lush greenery embraces the house.
The 183-square-meter interior feels like an architectural sanctuary defined by a minimalistic design aesthetic. The clean lines remove visual noise by decluttering the space, allowing the focus to fall on its rugged history. It makes the interior feel incredibly spacious and open. The preserved, dark-stained exposed timber beams are the most striking feature of the interior. The beams add a dramatic contrast against the white walls and limestone flooring.
The large glazed door opens into the hallway with a ceiling height of up to 16 feet. The vertical space added by the soaring ceiling makes the ground level spacious and airy. It features a living room, a dining area, a fireplace, a private wing, and direct access to the garden via the glazed door. The level has an open layout, with different zones flowing into one another.
The designer kitchen, built by next125, features a ceramic countertop by Lechner, a terrazzo sink, a Dornbracht pull-out faucet, a Miele gas oven, and a Bosch refrigerator with a freezer compartment, offering a glimpse of its modern amenities. Its monochromatic palette blends with the white walls, forming a visual centerpiece and connecting the living room and dining area.
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The private wing on the ground level includes a cozy bedroom, a dressing room, and a bathroom. The luxurious bathroom has a Portuguese limestone sink designed by architect Hans Verstuyft, and Villeroy & Boch sanitary ware. A separate guest water closet includes a wall-mounted toilet and a solid stone basin.
A handcrafted, sculptural steel stairway leads to the upper floor, where an open gallery overlooks the living area and the hallway below. The dark-stained exposed beams on the upper floor appear more pronounced. It features a second bedroom, a shower room with a freestanding ceramic basin, and a glass shower. The spacious attic can be used as a private space or a studio if needed.
Outside, the seating areas form atmospheric retreats where residents can rejuvenate under the open sky or beneath the shade of trees. The water lily pond and gentle streams further enhance this serene atmosphere. The heritage house features two modern outbuildings, namely the Garden Pavilion and the Black Steel Greenhouse.
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Designed as a wellness sanctuary, the Garden Pavilion, located at the edge of the property, houses a sauna and a gym. The Black Steel Greenhouse opens to the enclosed garden sanctuary and gives a modern identity to the historic building. These outbuildings create a balanced dialogue between the traditional craftsmanship and modern architecture.
The Smokehouse of Poggensee is a captivating example of preserving the traditional structure while adding a modern touch with renovation. The contemporary outbuildings and modern renovation do not compete with the historical charm of the main structure. Instead, the modern renovations transform the heritage building into a stunning architectural sanctuary. Currently listed with real estate agency Fantastic Frank, with agents Nico Richter and Christian Gröning, it is priced at €1,750,000 (approximately $2,000,000).
Via: dwell
