It is no secret that the ‘Green Lungs of Poland’ region inspires architects seeking ways to build in harmony with nature and the surrounding landscape. This is precisely the approach taken by the Archigrest studio when designing a detached house in Masuria. The 163-square-metre property draws on local traditions, yet does not compromise on the comforts offered by modern construction and lifestyle.
A house in Masuria open to the landscape
The design was created with the aim of making the best possible use of the Masurian landscape’s assets. The south-west-facing balcony offers a view of the idyllic surroundings, whilst the terraces accessible from the kitchen and living room serve as a place for the household to relax every day. Large glazed areas, roof windows and exposed mezzanine beams ensure that plenty of light floods into the interior all year round. Importantly, the plot has not been fenced off. By moving away from the typical practice of enclosing the property with a fence, the house blends seamlessly into the surrounding natural environment.
An interior designed for spending time together
The layout of the rooms reflects the lifestyle of the owners, who enjoy spending time with family and friends. The spacious living area is ideal for shared meals and conversations, whilst the numerous sleeping areas allow guests to stay overnight in comfort. In the loft, meanwhile, a cosy hideaway has been created for the children. The architects at Archigrest have also thought of the youngest members of the household – the cats. The furry friends can roam freely and climb the wooden beams and balustrades, which they find great fun.
Tradition with a modern twist
The house draws on the traditional architecture of Masuria. It features a timber frame and a simple gable roof covered with Dutch pantile roof tiles. The architects wanted the building to age naturally over the years and blend in ever more seamlessly with the surrounding woodland. From a distance, it looks very peaceful and unobtrusive, whilst up close it catches the eye with its multitude of refined details. Structural elements have been left exposed both inside and on the façades. The ridge beam is supported by four tall columns of laminated timber, whilst deep eaves effectively shield the balconies and terraces from the sun and rain.
A house in Masuria and respect for nature
The plot also features a separate building housing a workshop and a carport. This means the residential part of the complex has a smaller area to heat, which is particularly important in this, the coldest region of Poland. The building’s form was inspired by traditional Masurian farm buildings. Wastewater is channelled to a biological treatment plant with a plant-based filter, and the entire infrastructure has been discreetly concealed in the garden.
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About the practice:
Archigrest is a multi-award-winning architectural practice based in Warsaw, founded in 2018 by Marcin Maraszek and Maciej Kaufman. The team designs houses, public buildings, parks, historic buildings and urban developments. The architects attach great importance to the context of the site, local history and landscape, creating designs that are intended to serve their users well for many years to come.
design: Archigrest
floor area: 163 sq m
lead architects: Marcin Maraszek, Maciej Kaufman
design team: Katarzyna Lis, Kewin Niewiarowski
photographs: Kuba Rodziewicz
See also:Detached house|Interiors|Timber|Detail|Interesting facts|whiteMAD on Instagram
