Harmony in Nature: Crafting Tranquil Retreat with Archicraft’s Discerning Design
In spring 2020, a discerning couple approached Archicraft with a vision for a modest house, seeking a tranquil retreat in nature away from the bustling city life. They envisioned a comfortable haven where the rustling of trees replaced the sounds of trams, offering immediate contact with the natural surroundings.
The chosen area for their cottage had a distinctive atmosphere, accessible via a rugged road rather than a conventional asphalt path, transforming the overall perception. The location provided an escape from urban worries, fostering a closer connection to nature.
Adhering to local regulations defining the maximum building area and height, the clients’ vision was limited. Opting for an archetypal cabin form, the design respected the built environment, emphasizing verticality to contrast the stability of the earth with the freedom of the sky.
The surroundings featured beautiful tall conifers, inspiring the facade design made of dark aluminum shingles resembling a pinecone. The aluminum surface ensured easy maintenance, durability, and practicality, meeting essential requirements.
The connection to nature was reinforced by glass sliding surfaces, seamlessly linking the interior living area with the surroundings. Expansive windows not only provided picturesque views but also flooded the cottage with natural light, catering to the homeowner’s passion for painting.
The interior aimed to emanate coziness and warmth, utilizing oak extensively for the flooring, fireplace wall, dining table, and chairs. Structural CLT spruce panels, visible in the bedroom and staircase, brought a natural warmth to the interior and contributed to cost-effective construction. 3AE, a specialist in wooden buildings, handled the design and realization of the construction.
Centered around well-being and relaxation, the cottage prioritized comfort over operational needs. The kitchen seamlessly integrated into the living area, forming a natural part of the space. A bookcase, extending into the ceiling, was placed above the kitchen, featuring a unifying oak wood motif matching the wall by the fireplace. The dining table naturally found its place between the kitchen cabinets.
The cottage embodied a synergy of contemporary design, a profound respect for nature, and a pragmatic use of space. Despite its compact size, the design created a haven for comfort, relaxation, and artistic pursuits.
The new cottage design drew inspiration from the owners’ contentment in the original nearby cottage, despite its miniature size. From the outset, the owners were confident in the appeal of a small yet welcoming and cozy space, embracing the philosophy that a well-designed environment can offer solace and satisfaction.
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Photography: Petr Polák
Text originally by Lenka Bartoňová, Miroslav Krátký, edits were made for BluPrint
