NEW HOW architects: On the picturesque outskirts of Hrubá Skála, a modern weekend house has been built, designed to harmonize with the idyllic landscape of the Bohemian Paradise Protected Landscape Area. The design respects the historically rich environment and the natural beauty of the region while providing a peaceful retreat in connection with the surrounding landscape. The sophisticated design of this house harmoniously combines traditional and modern elements, meeting the high standards set for contemporary living.
The plot, situated on a gentle slope south of Hrubá Skála's village center, offers a unique canvas. It is surrounded by a mix of historical and modern family houses, each contributing to the area's eclectic charm. The design draws inspiration from traditional architecture, with a keen focus on integrating the house seamlessly into its natural and cultural context. The floor plan of the cottage takes the form of a wide-open V, a deliberate choice to mirror the constricted shape of the plot and to maximize the panoramic views of the Bohemian Paradise landscape. The single-storey structure features a gable roof, a nod to the region's architectural heritage, yet the house's configuration—a longitudinal, bent mass—injects a modern twist.
Upon entering from the northern access road, one is greeted by an expansive view of the south-facing panorama, framed by the ruins of medieval castle Trosky. The living spaces, including a main living room with an inserted floor, a children's room, and a bedroom, are oriented towards this breathtaking view. A terrace extends these living areas into the landscape, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor experience. The house's construction employs traditional materials, with wooden CLT panels forming the main structure and a wooden truss supporting the roof. The basement, essential for housing technology and storage, is built from concrete blocks, with the visible parts lined with local stone, blending the cottage into its sloping terrain. The roof, covered with dark-colored square metal templates laid diagonally, ensures durability while maintaining a rustic aesthetic.
The greatest challenge in addressing this project was undoubtedly the foundation construction. The house is situated on a slope that had been considered unbuildable for years due to its significant instability. It is founded on eighteen piles with a diameter of 800 mm and represents a technical marvel of its kind. In essence, this architectural project is a testament to the harmonious blending of tradition and innovation. It respects the historical context and natural beauty of Bohemian Paradise while providing contemporary comfort and design sophistication. This weekend house stands as a beacon of thoughtful design, offering a tranquil retreat that celebrates its surroundings.
About studio / author
NEW HOW is an architectural studio, which builds on the experience of the previous architecti.cz office and the independent work of its founding members, architects David Zámečník and Filip Havliš. The predominant part of the work is residential and commercial architecture, but in addition, the studio was given the opportunity to design several projects in a mountain environment. During its existence, the studio has received several awards in architectural competitions and their projects and realizations have been published in various professional media. So far, the studio's greatest success has been winning an international architectural competition for the New Kežmarok Cottage in the High Tatras in Slovakia. Whether it is a small design, interior, house or urbanism, architects always try to create and collaborate with the client in the design process, ideally from study to implementation. They have verified during many years of practice that this is the only way to guarantee a quality result and final satisfaction on both sides.
