Explore the remarkable transformation of Nieby Crofters Cottage, a historic Baltic coast renovation project by acclaimed architects Jan Henrik Jansen and Marshall Blecher. This 120-year-old German farmhouse, once abandoned with a partially collapsed roof, has been meticulously restored into a luxury country retreat that perfectly balances heritage preservation with contemporary design. The award-winning renovation maintains the cottage’s authentic character while introducing stunning modern elements, including a glass-walled living space and a massive oak dining table. Discover how these innovative architects transformed an abandoned building into one of Germany’s most unique coastal homes without sacrificing its historic essence.
Written by Maxim Sorokopud
At the turn of the 20th century, a charming brick cottage was built along the Baltic Coast of Germany by humble farmers. Over the next 120 years, this building withstood two world wars, ever more extreme weather, and the natural pressures of time. Finally, at the turn of the 21st century, the building was abandoned, falling into a state of disrepair, with the roof even partially collapsing.
Still, the character of the cottage remained. After another decade, Jan Henrik Jansen and Marshall Blecher’s clients realized that the building was worth salvaging. The assignment was to create a contemporary country retreat without diminishing the essence of the original structure.
While other cottages in the area have been renovated beyond recognition, the architects were determined to maintain the historic nature of Nieby Crofters Cottage. From certain angles, this building appears to be perfectly preserved. This is certainly the case for the street view, with little other than modern window frames suggesting that any major changes have been made. However, from other angles, the scale of the project is revealed.
