The small, picturesque village of Strážné is situated on the Czech side of the Krkonoše Mountains. It is in this unspoilt setting that a house has been built, inspired by the region’s traditional architecture and a building that once stood on the site. The design by Mimosa Architects did not focus on preserving the existing structure, as it was in such poor condition that it was practically beyond repair. However, the architects decided to recreate the former atmosphere and overall style. The newly built, contemporary cottage in the Krkonoše Mountains draws heavily on the rich tradition of this region, drawing inspiration from its historical predecessor.
A new house based on the old building
The plot was once home to an ageing log cabin, which over the years had been extensively altered without any regard for its historical character. Successive additions in the form of extensions, makeshift repairs and cladding made of prefabricated panels had completely obscured the Karkonosze style. Almost all of the few remaining fragments of the original house were in poor condition and unsuitable for use in the project. In this situation, the architects decided to focus on the intangible aspects of this charming place, attempting to recreate the atmosphere of the old buildings rather than literally reconstructing them.
A contemporary chalet in the Czech Krkonoše Mountains
The architecture of the Krkonoše region has developed distinct characteristics resulting from the area’s harsh climate, particularly the long, snowy winters. The area is dominated by high, steep roofs adapted to heavy snowfall, haylofts and asymmetrical structures set on low log foundations. These are complemented by gables finished with timber cladding and stone plinths. Although this form of houses and other buildings stems purely from their functionality, there is no denying that it creates a very picturesque and intriguing impression. The Mimosa Architects design draws on these distinctive features, drawing heavily on their proportions, materials and composition. The resulting house thus clearly references local tradition, whilst allowing for architectural reinterpretations.
Historical elements reused
Despite significant damage and alterations, the new house utilised the foundation of the historic structure. Its layout is based on the old principles of interior organisation. The main room has retained an intimate, somewhat enclosed atmosphere. Its scale stems from the miraculously preserved beamed ceiling, which has been given a new lease of life here and, in doing so, has defined the height and proportions of the room. It is illuminated by a long window with an alternating rhythm of frameless and traditional panes, which further emphasised the horizontality of the ground floor and framed the magnificent views of the Karkonosze landscape. The old part of the house also houses a guest bedroom and a staircase, whilst the former bathrooms have been converted into a sauna area.
A contemporary chalet in the Karkonosze Mountains and its design
Between the hillside and the main body of the house, a utility area was created, housing a pantry, laundry room, sports equipment storage, a workshop and a technical room. The attic has been fitted out with rooms offering great flexibility in layout, ensuring maximum privacy and views of the mountain ridges. All systems have been selected with a view to simplicity of operation and minimising interference with nature. The building draws electricity from the grid; heating and hot water are provided by a heat pump with a geothermal borehole; water is supplied by a nearby spring; and wastewater is treated on-site.
design: Mimosa Architects
photos: Petr Polák
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