Designing a building or interior for oneself is always quite a challenge for an architect, this house for oneself was designed by Jakub Pawlak of Unicorn Architecture. It has a simple form and took just two months to build.
The architect opted for a house through which the forest penetrates – not as a decorative element, but as an integral part of the space. The form of the building is simple and transparent, so that nature can penetrate from every direction. From the outset, the design took into account the economic nature of the development and the readiness for future expansion, so that the house can grow with the needs of the inhabitants.
Completion in just sixty days was made possible by the use of prefabricated timber frame elements. By avoiding traditional brickwork and wet works, the schedule was significantly accelerated, reducing the risk of delays and guaranteeing a smooth interior finish without unnecessary downtime.
Timber-frame technology as the key to flexibility
Timber framing combines lightness with exceptional stability, and its construction gives freedom for post-occupancy modifications. Partitions can be moved or removed to adapt the layout to changing needs. Both installations and interior finishes dry more quickly, contributing to an overall reduction in work time.
The interior is dominated by wood, natural ventilation and abundant glazing. As a result, the interior microclimate is healthy all year round and residents can enjoy views of greenery from every room. The low construction costs – comparable to the price of two flats in the city centre – go hand in hand with a high standard of living and a sense of closeness to the surrounding nature.
Terrace as an extension of the living room
The terrace is where the boundary between indoors and the forest almost disappears. The wooden floor seamlessly connects the living space to the outside, and sliding doors create the effect of an extended living room. In the evenings, when the green of the forest falls into twilight, the terrace becomes a natural extension of the relaxation area.
On an area of 84 sq m, the architect accommodated an open living area with a clearly separated kitchen, two bedrooms, a practical bathroom and storage space cleverly hidden under the stairs. The interior is reminiscent of a yacht’s cabin – every centimetre is well thought out, while at the same time there is a lightness and visual space that gives the impression of a larger space.
Prepared for the future
The possibility of adding a first floor was already envisaged at the planning stage. Simply reinforce the foundations and raise the external walls to create an additional storey. In this way, the house “grows” with the family and the investment remains valid for many years, without the need for costly reconstruction. The result is a house that works – simple in form, cost-effective in execution, open to the forest and flexible in adaptation. Quick to build and ready to become a retreat for years to come, it combines respect for place with practical solutions that make everyday life easier.
design: Unicorn Architecture(http://www.unicornarchitecture.com.pl)
photos: Piotr Krajewski(https://pkrajewski.pl)
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