Sonnenhof

Nestled in the picturesque town of Starnberg, Bavaria, the Sonnenhof stands as a testament to architectural elegance and historical charm. This magnificent structure, often referred to as Villa Böhler or Villa Graf Bernstorff, offers visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of early 20th-century aristocracy, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Bavarian Alps.

The History of Sonnenhof

The story of Sonnenhof begins in 1912 when Julius Böhler, a prominent Munich antiques dealer and royal court antiquarian, acquired a prime piece of land on the upper Hanfelder Berg. Böhler commissioned the renowned architect Hans Noris, a protégé of Gabriel von Seidl, to design a residence that would not only serve as a luxurious country estate but also reflect his refined tastes and lifestyle. The resulting structure is a masterpiece of architectural symmetry and grace, exuding a sense of majestic tranquility.

In 1920, the estate changed hands when Böhler's ex-wife sold it to the diplomat Johann Graf Bernstorff. Bernstorff commissioned further enhancements to the villa, including the addition of a mirrored wing on the west side, which amplified its grandeur and stately presence. However, with the rise of the Nazi regime, Bernstorff emigrated and sold the property in 1934. Over the years, Sonnenhof has seen various owners and purposes, including plans for a hotel and retirement home, though these were never realized. In 2002, the German entrepreneur Peter Löw undertook a comprehensive restoration, returning the villa to its former glory.

Architectural Features

The Sonnenhof is a marvel of architectural design, drawing inspiration from French chateaux. Its facades, crafted with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail, convey a serene elegance. Unlike many older lakeside homes, Sonnenhof's design ensures that all four facades are equally impressive. The villa's main entrance, flanked by stately columns, leads to a belvedere offering sweeping views of the surrounding parkland.

Inside, the villa's layout is both functional and grand. The ground floor, marked by French arched windows, houses the main living and reception rooms. A vaulted vestibule with red marble stairs leads to spacious, light-filled living areas. The centerpiece is a large living and music room with an exedra-like window, flanked by a salon and a library adorned with 17th-century Florentine coffered ceilings and exquisite marble fireplaces. The dining room, added during Bernstorff's modifications, features a lift connecting it to the kitchen below.

The Park and Gardens

The Sonnenhof's park, designed in the English landscape style, stretches from the hilltop to Oswaldstraße. This trapezoidal expanse offers unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape, with paths meandering through its varied terrain. The garden in front of the lake-facing facade is a baroque-inspired parterre, accessed via a grand staircase from the villa's terrace. This formal garden is bordered by a curved balustrade with decorative ironwork, from which paths lead to the lower park areas.

Behind the villa, a similar garden mirrors the front parterre, serving as the endpoint of the driveway. A raised wall, flanked by tuff stone terraces, encloses a space with benches and a fountain. From here, paths wind through the rear park, maintaining the baroque garden's strict order. The west side of the villa features a rectangular ornamental garden with a wall fountain, while a narrow path leads to a hilltop viewpoint with a pavilion, offering panoramic vistas.

Outbuildings and Surroundings

Several outbuildings, including a gatehouse and former stables, now converted to garages, are part of the Sonnenhof estate. These structures, located at the entrance on Hanfelderstraße, are subtly integrated into the landscape, maintaining the villa's prominence. The area once housed extensive orchards, now partially developed into residential buildings and hospital facilities.

A Modern Legacy

Today, Sonnenhof stands as a beautifully restored monument, its history and architecture drawing visitors from around the world. The villa's cinematic appeal has made it a sought-after location for events and film shoots, most notably serving as a primary set for the 1996 German film Die Apothekerin. A detailed model of the villa and its grounds, depicting its state in the early 20th century, is a highlight of the Starnberger See Museum's collection.

In conclusion, Sonnenhof is not just a historical residence; it is a symbol of the artistic and cultural heritage of Bavaria. Its walls and gardens whisper stories of the past, inviting exploration and admiration from all who visit this enchanting corner of Germany.