In Izabelin, on the edge of the Kampinos National Park, a single-storey house with a mezzanine floor and a floor area of 220 square metres has been built. From street level, the building appears modest and introverted, as if deliberately retreating into the shade of the surrounding greenery. It is only from the garden side that it reveals its true scale and openness: large glazed areas bring the forest into the interior, allowing the residents to live in close proximity to nature without compromising on privacy.
A space bathed in light
The design concept of Beczak / Beczak / Architekci was to create a structure that acts as a tunnel for light. The east-facing window in the hallway lets in the morning sun, whose rays reach as far as the west-facing living room and spill outwards. In the afternoon, the process runs in the opposite direction – bright streaks cut through the building lengthwise, emphasising its axial layout. The spacious living area, crowned by a mezzanine and a gable roof with an asymmetrical ridge, has been designed so that light can freely permeate the interior.
Brick and sheet metal
The body of the house is formed by walls of traditional red brick combined with sections finished in anthracite-coloured standing seam sheet metal. The tall glazing makes the trees seem to coexist with the interior furnishings, whilst the exposed elements of the roof structure define the character of the space. At the heart of domestic life are the living room, kitchen, dining room and an impressive bookcase wall. A central corridor leads to the bedrooms and bathrooms, organising the functional layout.
In the dining room, the architects decided to cut out a section of the structure, creating an intimate, sheltered nook. It is a space that acts as a peaceful retreat, contrasting with the openness of the living room. The living area is extended by a deeply covered terrace, allowing the forest surroundings to be enjoyed regardless of the weather.
Architecture in harmony with the landscape
The house does not have a traditional garage – parking spaces have been planned in front of the building, which has allowed for the preservation of a clean, horizontal form without additional volumes. The whole has been designed to blend harmoniously into the wooded landscape of Izabelin. This is architecture that does not compete with nature, but consciously gives way to it.
The result is a cohesive, functional oasis of tranquillity. The house opens up to its surroundings whilst ensuring privacy for its inhabitants. The project by Beczak Architekci demonstrates that contemporary architecture can operate in complete symbiosis with nature, becoming its natural extension.
design: Beczak / Beczak / Architekci
photos: Piotr Krajewski
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