Berlin’s Only Ray Kappe Home by Lars Triesch

Tucked within the lush greenery of Kleinmachnow near Berlin, Lars Triesch’s residence stands as a rare architectural jewel. Designed by the late Ray Kappe, the house blends the openness and warmth of Southern California with the calm elegance of the German countryside. As the only Kappe-designed home outside the United States, it represents a fusion of two worlds, tailored to Triesch’s refined eye for timeless design.

From California Dreaming to German Reality

Lars Triesch’s fascination with California architecture began during his teenage years, influenced by his background in music and the cultural imagery of the West Coast. After discovering Ray Kappe’s work through the documentary Coast Modern, he envisioned a family home in Berlin that would capture this mid-century modern ethos. Although Kappe passed away in 2019, the collaboration and planning had already set the stage for a design that would remain faithful to his legacy.

Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Living

The home exemplifies mid-century modernism with expansive glass walls, cantilevered volumes, and open-plan interiors that dissolve boundaries between inside and outside. Surrounded by mature trees and landscaped terraces, the design embraces natural light and ventilation, creating a year-round connection to the surrounding gardens. This interplay between architecture and nature is a signature element of Kappe’s work, now adapted to the seasonal rhythms of Berlin.

Craftsmanship Meets Modern Comfort

Triesch entrusted the interiors to Original in Berlin, his own company specializing in mid-century furniture and bespoke interiors. The spaces are fitted with custom cabinetry, warm wood finishes, and carefully restored vintage pieces, ensuring a cohesive aesthetic. Every detail—from the kitchen’s clean lines to the bathroom’s serene palette—balances Kappe’s architectural clarity with contemporary functionality.

Preserving a Legacy

For Triesch, this project is more than a personal residence—it is a living homage to Ray Kappe’s architectural philosophy. By bringing a Kappe home to Europe, he has ensured that the architect’s influence extends beyond its Californian roots. With its thoughtful design, craftsmanship, and rare provenance, the Kleinmachnow house stands as both a family sanctuary and a cultural landmark for design lovers worldwide.