A $27.8M Berlin Villa Reclaims a Century-Old Family Legacy on a Private Lake

Berlin isn’t known for waterfront estates—but this bucolic grande dame changes that. On the quiet shores of Waldsee (“Forest Lake”) in the posh Zehlendorf area, about 8.5 miles southeast of the city’s central Potsdamer Platz, sits a villa with more than a century of history, a family legacy that’s come full circle, and even a few hidden artworks discovered during its restoration. Set on just over half an acre of gardens that slope directly to the water and listed with DDRE Global for €23.8 million (about $27.8 million), the six-bedroom home is one of the city’s only private lakefront residences.

Built for industrialist Dr. Gustav Winkler between 1916 and 1919 by the influential designer and architect Paul Renner, who is perhaps best known for creating the Futura typeface, the house has hosted some of Germany’s leading minds, including physicists Max Planck and Werner Heisenberg and the politician Konrad Adenauer. For decades, it stood quietly as part of Berlin’s layered history until Winkler’s great-grandson happened upon it and decided to restore it to its former stature.

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Between 2010 and 2013, the villa underwent a meticulous restoration that preserved its early 20th-century architecture while introducing modern systems and materials. “This property really is something remarkable,” says Serge Cowan, an advisor at DDRE Global. “One of the most fascinating things about this property is that it’s been brought back to life by the original owner’s great-grandson, who uncovered original artwork hidden in the walls during the restoration. 

“You just don’t find stories like that every day. Plus, it’s one of the few true lakefront homes in Berlin, right on Waldsee, and it’s fully future-ready with modern features such as a KNX smart home system and a private spa. It’s the perfect blend of heritage and high-end living.”

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At the heart of the 15,000 square feet of living space is a soaring double-height atrium wrapped in detailed cherrywood paneling and surrounded by a series of formal salons, each with original murals, moldings, and paneling. Upstairs, themed guest suites and a glass elevator add character and convenience, while the sprawling lower level includes a private spa and gym, a guest or staff apartment, and a garden lounge with a full wall of glass overlooking the lake.

Elsewhere, the Bulthaup kitchen is decked out with Gaggenau appliances, and the Antonio Lupi bathrooms include one with Indian-inspired details and another with Chinese influences. The smart home system, with more than 700 access points, runs seamlessly behind the scenes, complemented by discreet security and a wine cellar.

Click here to see more photos of the lakefront estate in Zehlendorf.