Residential Addition in South Bohemia

Project Description

FROM THE ARCHITECTS:

The investor wished for an extension to his farmhouse in Southern Bohemia, one that he could rest and relax in – a lookout and an observatory. We extended the volume of one of the wings of the building with a semi-transparent timber structure. In terms of articulation of form, the extension is in complete harmony with the original farmhouse. In terms of structure, however, the transparent timber frame, along with its zen atmosphere, is a complete contrast. The ground floor serves as a storage for firewood. Once through, one can climb up a spiral staircase onto a bridge connecting the old attic with the new. Each of the spaces encloses a single room. The old attic serves as an astronomical observatory, the new as a lookout. The plank-assembled exterior shading of the new attic allows one to peek through and observe the surrounding landscape. The observatory in the old attic, on the other hand, is a dim space that provides a lot of privacy, since light only comes in through a narrow window. A part of the roof can be moved at night-time and one can peacefully observe the stars. It is very comforting that once you examine the photographs, there is not much else to be said. We have repeatedly proclaimed that beauty can emerge as a result of a logical, utilitarian structure that exploits the possibilities of timber to its maximum. It is clear at first sight that precise articulation of a timber structure can create beauty without the need of ornament or any other aestheticization. The result clearly demonstrates that the client’s generosity and willingness to work with top notch specialists from the beginning has paid off. This namely includes our long-time friend and co-worker Zbynek Srutek. We have been collaborating for many years and our vision truly resonates with his structural reasoning. Not any less great were the contractors for the facade and many others, who participated on this small but nevertheless interesting project.

Project Credits
Project: Residential Addition in South Bohemia
Architect: Huť architektury Martin Rajniš – Martin Rajniš, Tomáš Kosnar, David Kubík
Project Cooperation: PSK Tuzar – Jindřich Tuzar
Wooden Construction: TIMBERDESIGN – Zbyněk Šrůtek
Facade: Metrostav D3- středisko fasády