German architecture firm GRAFT have completed work on a timber hotel and spa hidden in the woodland of Nohfelden, northern Germany.
Designed as a product of the surrounding topography, the 12,860sq m (138,400sq ft) Hotel Bostalsee rests above a pair of green hills, overlooking Lake Bostalsee.
Guests arrive through oak woodland, with the water hidden from view. The lobby is situated in the natural gap between the hills and reveals a panoramic view over the lake as people enter the building. An open-air terrace with fireplace offers guests an opportunity to watch the sun rise and set over the scene.
A restaurant, bar, reading room, conference space and 2,000sq m (21,500sq ft) spa and wellness area are embedded in the hilly landscape, with the latter facing the surrounding trees to create a sheltered, private environment.
Above, 100 hotel rooms and suites are located on the two upper floors, and a penthouse and bar are due to be constructed on the roof.
The woodland on the west side of the hotel has been thinned out to provide more views of the lake, with the wood used for the façade of the hotel. Timber slats have been charred to create a silvery-black shine.
“GRAFT’s design is a response to the spirit of the place,” said the practice in a statement. “It builds on its qualities to create a new harmonious whole. The result is a travel destination with a special identity of its own.”
The firm are currently finalising several major projects in Germany, including a
new museum celebrating the art of graffiti in Berlin, a
horse theme and adventure park in Munich and a
new ice rink in the Harz Mountains.
