Wine archi­tecture @Feinschmecker

A gem of Darß seaside resort architecture, renovated and extended with a light-filled annexe: Villa Ruhleben, built in 1890, can accommodate up to ten people – just five minutes from the Baltic Sea beach and nestled in the heart of a pine forest.

The living room is arguably the only room we don’t actually need. We sleep, cook and wash ourselves elsewhere. Yet somehow, when it’s not there, its absence is immediately felt. Here are eight holiday homes with a summery feel that have moved this unnecessary yet indispensable space outdoors.

The Flößerhaus Steyr embodies the history of the Upper Austrian town: built in the 17th century on the banks of the River Enns, it later fell into disrepair, before being restored and extended with due respect.

Anyone wishing to immerse themselves in Le Corbusier’s architecture at close quarters and savour it in contemplative silence will find the perfect destination in the Couvent de La Tourette. Dr Brigitte Schultz visited this remarkable place of tranquillity for us.