SATOSHI OKADA
ARCHITECTS

The 50,000 square-meter site is located on Lake Seliger, one of the largest natural lakes in Central Russia famous for its much-preserved flora and fauna.

The flat, transparent villa abuts the lake, near-invisible from the public road running 9 meters above the water’s edge. The long, simple steel structure of 100 meters separates the site into two realms. Automobiles approach the property on a gentle, meandering ramp towards the main entrance on the south edge, adjacent to the garage and boathouse.

Set about 50 centimeters above the highest water level, the ground floor is dedicated to the living, dining, and kitchen, commanding a magnificent view of the lake and garden through high ceilings and large windows. In contrast, the elevated 1.2-meter platform above the living space demarcates the bedrooms and guest rooms. The main bathroom, featuring a spa and sauna, is secluded to the north end across a generous courtyard in between, leading into a wide deck gently stepping down into the lake.