Nestled in the countryside, embedded in nature, the aptly named House By The Lake is a powerful statement of minimalist tranquility. Wood is the dominant material used for construction of this sculptural dwelling.

Floor-to-ceiling windows bring the outdoors in to a ground floor "living hall", as Zurich's Appels Architekten put it. Electric blinds close off glazing when needed, while still allowing light in. Ingenuity is everywhere.

Interiors are so stripped back that they're hardly there, emphasising the sense of peace - and letting nature provide colour and drama. Sliding doors totally open up the kitchen area, further merging this remarkable home with its equally remarkable location.

"We are committed," say the architects, "to a simple and robust architecture that uses resources sparingly by focusing on their durability." Job done, we'd say.

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