Freifrau visits Hof 47
A historic farmstead deeply rooted in family history – and today a place of living tradition, modern aesthetics and personal inspiration. What once began as an agricultural estate has been transformed into a unique home by Sabrina Schmidpeter and her husband with great sensitivity, commitment and respect for the past. In this interview, the owner talks about her deep emotional connection to the farm, the challenges and opportunities of the renovation, and her passion for interior design. It becomes clear that this is not just a harmonious living concept, but a place with soul that preserves the old while being open to the new. ‘Hof 47’ is much more than a residential project – it is a retreat, a creative stage and a source of constant inspiration all at once.
Leya Counterstool High
INTERVIEW
What motivated you back then to renovate the historic farmstead and turn it into a home?
Perhaps it was less of a decision and more of a feeling. The farm has been in my family for generations – most recently, my grandparents lived here and ran a small-scale farming business. I grew up right next door and always had a close emotional connection to this place. As a child, I loved playing in the hay, and I have many memories of it.
It was the historic architecture in particular, with its impressive vaulted ceiling and the hay barn above, that ultimately persuaded us to take on the challenge of a comprehensive renovation. The farm was built around 1660 and has been in the family for eight generations. When my grandfather passed away, the farm stood empty for the first time in over 350 years – and with it came the question of what should become of everything that had been there before.
It quickly became clear to us that we did not want to start a completely new chapter, but rather continue the old one with respect, care and awareness of its significance. Without architects or external planners, we decided to tackle the project. My husband took on the entire construction management. It was a project that grew out of the substance and history of the place.
It was precisely this combination of tradition and renewal that was our greatest motivation: to preserve the valuable heritage of past generations and give it a vibrant, sustainable future.
What challenges and opportunities have arisen in combining traditional architecture and modern design?
The farmstead was shaped by its long history, yet at the same time open to new ideas. Our aim was to make this tension visible. We wanted not only to preserve the historical substance, but also to translate it into the present day, with a style that is minimalist but not cold, restrained but not interchangeable. It was particularly important to us to work with honest, durable materials that reflect both the building and our attitude.
That is why we deliberately left the historic roof truss visible, exposed the old vaulted ceiling and retained many of the room structures and original window settings. At the same time, we adjusted the room heights. Many of the ceilings used to be very low, but now the rooms are more spacious, brighter and appear more open. It was important to us to think not only in terms of design, but also in terms of functionality. We have made the house energy efficient and equipped it for a sustainable future.
The biggest challenge was to maintain a balance. The old should not appear dusty, the modern should not appear arbitrary. The result is something unique, a clear, authentic language that carries on our history while remaining open to everything that is yet to come.
Marie Armchair
What particularly appealed to you about the Marie armchairs? Why did you choose this particular model?
I was immediately impressed by the unique frame – it has something sculptural and timeless about it. The combination of oiled oak and light-coloured fabric upholstery strikes me as a modern interpretation of cosiness. The Marie Armchair is a real statement piece without being obtrusive. And it's incredibly comfortable – perfect for long evenings, lingering and deep conversations.
Is there a favourite design detail or a particularly fond memory in your dining area?
The dining area in the vaulted room is one of my favourite visual features in the house – formerly used as a stable, it is now the heart of the home. The distinctive architecture lends the room a special sense of calm and clarity, and the large table invites you to linger with friends and family. Every gathering here creates new memories, and that is precisely what makes this place so unique.
If you had one wish, who would you like to spend an evening with at your dining table and why?
With my grandparents – I would love to show them what has become of their farm and home. I think they would be proud that the place lives on and probably also surprised at how much the house has changed without losing its essence.
How do you find the most beautiful inspirations – online or offline? How did you become aware of Freifrau and, in particular, the Marie collection?
Both. I love to find inspiration both online and offline. Instagram and Pinterest offer lots of ideas. I often find profound inspiration when I'm out and about: travelling, in nature, in new places, browsing concept stores or talking to creative people.
I have known the Freifrau brand for a long time, and its timeless, elegant designs have always appealed to me. It was love at first sight with the Marie collection, and I am all the more delighted to now have it in our home.
What values and moods do you want to convey with your interior design ideas?
It's about a harmonious interplay of aesthetics and atmosphere – about rooms that radiate calm and authenticity. Minimalist, but with depth. I think it's important that you feel comfortable right away. It should be cosy without appearing cluttered. For me, clarity comes from the interplay of many factors: lighting, furnishings, materials, scents, small details. When all of these come together, the result is a place that touches, relaxes and makes you happy.
And lastly... what does a really nice Sunday look like for you?
Sleeping in comfortably, coffee on the terrace in the sun, a walk, maybe doing some gardening or working on a home project, a good book or just a little daydreaming. And in the evening, dinner with friends, a glass of wine – and just enjoying the moment without appointments or obligations.
Thank you Sabrina, for taking the time to talk to us!
