A single-family house by the water was built on the edge of a small village near Prague, whose design was respectful of its surroundings from the outset, but also envisaged minor changes to the landscape. Architect Lukáš Pejsar of studio 3AE, instead of opening up the building to the vast meadows, turned it towards the garden and the nearby forest. In this way, the house protects the private space of the occupants, while at the same time blending naturally into the natural context.
The L-shaped massing takes advantage of the slope of the property. On the street side, the building gives the impression of being enclosed and modest, which promotes the intimacy of the residents. On the other hand, the interior opens up onto a private garden, which gently transitions into the forest green. The terraced nature of the plot emphasises the natural dynamics of the site and makes the garden space an extension of the living area of the house. The focal point of the composition is a natural swimming pond connected to a wooden terrace leading directly from the living room. Two large sliding glazings allow the interior and the garden to merge seamlessly, creating unity.
The usable area of the house is 250 sq m and includes five living rooms, two bathrooms, a dressing room and a spacious living area with kitchen and dining area. All rooms are connected by a long corridor with shelving, which acts as an internal axis and brings order to the interior layout. Solid wood panels were used in the construction to ensure structural stability, good insulation and a friendly microclimate. The façade is made of thermally modified wood, which ages naturally over time, and the green mono-pitched roof allows the volume to subtly blend into the forest surroundings. The house was designed in the spirit of sustainability. Underfloor heating is supported by a fireplace insert and hot water is provided by a heat pump. In addition, a photovoltaic installation and a rainwater retention system improve the energy balance and reduce the environmental impact. Vapour-permeable partitions and recycled materials were used in the design, and moisture sensors were installed in the structure to enable constant monitoring of the condition.
The interiors are finished with exposed timber for a warm and authentic feel. The visible CLT panels interact both visually and tactilely, creating a healthy atmosphere for everyday living. Large glazings open up the house to the garden, and the changing light and colours of nature become a natural part of the interior. The building was constructed with the help of local craftsmen and with materials mostly sourced from Czech sources. More than 80 per cent of the construction is recyclable, which, combined with eco-friendly solutions, gives the house an exceptionally low environmental footprint.
The house by the water is an example of architecture that does not compete with its surroundings, but coexists with them. It is a place that offers its inhabitants tranquillity, proximity to nature and a sense of harmony, while remaining a practical and modern place to live.
Project: 3AE
Author: Lukáš Pejsar
Photos: Petr Polák
Also read: single-family house | Czech Republic | Minimalism | Wood | whiteMAD on Instagram
