A dream home by the lake
Hannah, a passionate interior designer and the head of a third-generation business has created a dream retreat with her husband, Matthias, and their son. Though they reside in a maisonette apartment in the city, they are frequently drawn to the picturesque town of Strobl on the shimmering Wolfgangsee in Austria.
Their bond with the region runs deep. Matthias, a native Tyrolean, spent his childhood here, mastering the slopes of the surrounding mountains. Hannah, enchanted by the area through countless visits, shares: "Matthias always had the desire for us to create a home where he comes from. That ultimately happened here."
This 1950s holiday home has become their refuge - a place where they can escape the fast pace of city life and reconnect with nature.
Reviving a classic: A fresh take on tradition
While renovating, the couple was determined to maintain the home's original charm and introduce modern elements. The transformation, completed in just four months, perfectly balances tradition and contemporary design.
A standout feature is the restored plank flooring, originally a 1950s ship's floor, carefully sanded and varnished to preserve its timeless appeal. The attic, previously a dark storage space, has been converted into the luminous heart of the home. With the addition of VELUX roof windows, natural light now fills the space, creating an airy and inviting atmosphere.
A colour story inspired by nature
Hannah's keen sense of aesthetics and harmonious design is reflected throughout every room, with a thoughtful colour scheme inspired by the surrounding landscape.
"The fundamental concept we have followed here is the motto of the cottage between sky and lake," reveals the passionate interior designer.
On the ground floor, hues of blue echo the shimmering lake outside, complemented by neutral tones reminiscent of the sandy lakebed. Moving up to the first floor, a palette of soft greens reflects the ever-changing tones of the nearby forest, seamlessly integrating the home with its natural surroundings. At the very top, under the roof, the inspiration comes from the sky itself. Expansive window fronts open up to breathtaking views, while delicate light blue shades fill the space with a tranquil, airy atmosphere.
Bringing light into everyday spaces
A once dim and enclosed bathroom has been transformed into a bright, naturally lit space. With the installation of multiple VELUX roof windows, daylight now floods the room, creating a fresh and uplifting atmosphere.
A dark and enclosed bathroom transforms into a bright, naturally lit space with the addition of VELUX roof windows, bringing in daylight and creating a fresh atmosphere.
A spa-like bathroom experience
In the attic, Hannah and Matthias have created a unique sanctuary: a bathroom where a VELUX duo roof window positioned directly above a stylish rain shower.
"Showering while looking up at the treetops is an experience like no other," says Hannah.
The panoramic view of the forest, mountains, and even the church spire beyond makes daily routines feel almost meditative.
A breath of fresh air indoors
Hannah selected roof windows not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their practicality. Abundant daylight creates a spacious and calming ambience, while the windows also provide excellent ventilation.
"With the windows open, the fresh mountain air flows in, bringing the scent of the forest and a cool breeze. It's incredible!"
A bedroom designed for stargazing
The attic bedroom is a space where comfort and nature seamlessly come together. The warm plank flooring, minimalist decor, and rustic exposed beams add to the serene atmosphere, while the thoughtful layout enhances both relaxation and functionality.
Two VELUX roof windows with raised frames bring the night sky indoors, offering a spectacular view of the stars. Positioned directly above the bed, they create an enchanting experience for Hannah and Matthias as they drift off to sleep beneath a canopy of twinkling lights.
"You see endless stars, and sometimes even shooting stars. I never close the shutters - I love feeling so close to the sky," says Hannah.
A serene corner for creativity
The attic is more than just a restful retreat - it also serves as Hannah's creative sanctuary. With natural light streaming through the roof windows, the space is ideal for quiet reflection and inspiration.
"I love working here. The view through the windows lets my thoughts wander and sparks new ideas," shares Hannah.
Surrounded by nature and free from distractions, she finds that the changing light and shadows play a role in shaping her design concepts, making it a space where creativity flourishes effortlessly.
A dark, enclosed bedroom is transformed into a bright, serene space with VELUX roof windows, filling the room with natural light and warmth.
Adapting to every season with shutters
As Strobl experiences both warm summers and snowy winters, Hannah and Matthias quickly realised the importance of having shutters to make the attic bedroom comfortable year-round.
Hannah's attic bedroom stays bright and comfortable with VELUX roof windows and shutters.
A home that embraces its surroundings
The family's holiday cottage is a testament to thoughtful design, where every element seamlessly connects the indoors with the beauty of the outdoors. Hannah's carefully curated colour palette ensures nature is present in every corner, making their 1950s gem a unique and inviting retreat.
Here, between sky and lake, Hannah, Matthias, and their son have found more than just a second home - they have created a sanctuary where they can unwind, recharge, and truly embrace the serenity of their surroundings.
"The lake, the mountains - it all has such a calming effect on me. This is my ultimate place of peace."