Lakefront Heritage Revived: Christian Gaus’ Sustainable Renovation

Historic Ueberlingen building blends past and present through upcycling and design.

Nestled along Ueberlingen’s Seepromenade, the residential building at No. 11 stands as a testament to adaptive reuse and sensitive restoration. Originally part of the old city wall and owned by the Oexle family since 1920, the structure has evolved from a private residence to a beloved restaurant since 1957. The latest renovation, led by Christian Gaus, sought to breathe new life into the building while preserving its storied past—a challenge met through a harmonious blend of upcycling, restoration, and modern design principles.

The lakefront location served as a primary inspiration, with the design echoing the serene hues and textures of the water. In the bar area, shades of blue reflect the lake’s ever-changing palette, while floor-to-ceiling windows frame captivating views, blurring the boundaries between interior and landscape. The seminar rooms and vacation apartments above offer a unique sensation of floating above the water, deepening the connection to the tranquil surroundings.

Central to the renovation was a commitment to sustainability. Existing structural elements, including historic wooden beams and insignia, were carefully restored and integrated, preserving the building’s authentic charm. Furniture from previous eras was repurposed, and the use of local trades and materials minimized environmental impact. The project adhered to the sustainability phase of the German Sustainable Building Council, setting a benchmark for responsible heritage renovation.

Technical expertise played a vital role, with a multidisciplinary team overseeing structural engineering, building physics, fire protection, and kitchen planning. The renovation covered 1,182 square meters and was completed between 2022 and 2024, with a construction volume of 4.2 million euros. The result is a seamless blend of old and new—where expanded windows maximize natural light and upcycled elements bridge centuries of architectural history.

This project’s innovative approach has not gone unnoticed. In 2025, it was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design, recognizing its creative ingenuity and contribution to quality of life. The building at Seepromenade 11 now stands as a model for sustainable, context-sensitive design, demonstrating how heritage sites can be revitalized for contemporary use without losing their soul.

Christian Gaus’ renovation invites reflection on the value of preservation, sustainability, and the enduring power of place, offering inspiration for future projects that seek to honor the past while embracing the possibilities of tomorrow.