Not far from Poznań, the ‘Rezydencja pod Klonem’ has been built – an impressive house set amongst mature trees, covering an area of over 800 square metres, designed by Marcin Klukowski of the Exterio Architektura practice. The building respects the existing greenery and makes full use of its charms.
Rezydencja pod Klonem – a house amidst old trees
Before work began, the developers carried out a detailed dendrological survey. Recommendations were also drawn up regarding the protection of tree roots during the construction of the underground level. As a result, almost all the trees on the plot were preserved, including maples, oaks, pines and lime trees. The house was given a C-shaped floor plan, with space for the existing greenery between its wings. A spreading maple grows beside the terrace, a stately lime tree stands in front of the living room, whilst a larch and another lime tree remain in the private part of the residence and by the swimming pool. Their canopies shield the interiors from the sun and are visible through the large windows.
A roof like a folded sheet of paper
The curved shape of the roof is reminiscent of origami. Its line runs from the driveway over the gable-roofed section of the living room, then over the terrace and the bedroom area. The roof is clad in slate on top, whilst the underside is finished with wooden slats. The ground floor, which is almost entirely glazed, makes the large roof structure appear to float above the ground. Exterio Architektura designed the driveway and entrance to the building beneath a wide colonnade. The palette of materials was limited to slate, timber and glass. The natural wood has been left untreated so that it will turn grey naturally over time. The same material is also featured in the interiors.
A terrace with space for a maple tree
A large tree grows next to the terrace, which spans over 13 metres. A semi-circular cut-out has been made in the edge of the canopy to accommodate the maple, whilst skylights let in the sun and allow a view of its crown. The leaves, in turn, provide additional shade in the relaxation area. In the original design, the roof over the terrace was supported by columns; however, the client wished to keep the space free of any supports. The architect therefore used a steel structure, which made it possible to remove them. The terrace runs alongside the kitchen, dining room and swimming pool, providing convenient access to the outdoor area of the house.
A house amidst old trees: a high-ceilinged living room and a private spa
The living room spans two storeys, and through its tall windows one can see a linden tree standing several metres tall. An interesting spiral staircase leads to the first floor, where the rooms also have windows facing the greenery. In the master bedroom, the windows are positioned to frame views of the lime tree and larch. The residence also features a counter-current swimming pool, a jacuzzi, a sauna and a spa area. The glazed pool area offers direct access to the garden. Even whilst relaxing indoors, the residents can observe the trees and the surroundings as they change with the seasons.
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About the practice:
Exterio Architektura is a Warsaw-based practice led by Marcin Klukowski, specialising in the design of houses and residences. It has been operating for over a decade, with a portfolio comprising over 100 designs and several dozen completed projects across Poland. The team also works on urban planning and street furniture. The architects support clients from the initial discussions about their needs, through the preparation of documentation and paperwork, to assistance during construction. They attach great importance to the individual expectations of the residents and the specific conditions of each plot.
Name: Rezydencja pod Klonem
Location: near Poznań, Wielkopolska Province
Area: over 800 square metres
Architectural design: Exterio Architektura
Project architect: Marcin Klukowski
Photographs: Yassen Hristov, Artur Banach (drone shots)
See also:Detached house|Poznań |Façade|Interiors|Detail|whiteMAD on Instagram
