Dune House is a new project by REFORM ARCHITEKT studio Marcin Tomaszewski. When designing the building, the architect wanted to achieve a timeless effect. The minimalist volume in the form of an arch only delicately symbolises its presence. However, it provides the residents with everything a modern home should provide. The huge terrace overlooking the nearby greenery is impressive.
Marcin Tomaszewski’s new design subtly harmonises with the character of the location, providing a reference to the sand dunes. DUNE HOUSE responds to the new challenges of development by focusing on an innovative approach to design.
Often, it is the location that is the main source of inspiration for the architect, forcing them to make decisions that have a key impact on the final appearance of the building. In this particular case, the serenity of the province appealed to me the most. Theplay of classics and purity of character, characteristic of the countryside, absolutely enchanted me ,” explains the architect.
On the plot I found rubble, sand – it couldn’t have looked any worse… all around the buildings, which are not worth looking at… but the view to the north… hmm – a wonderful perspective ,” adds Tomaszewski.
The architect wanted the building not to be controversial, not to manifest its presence, it was to draw on local architectural history, but not to repeat outdated patterns.
After a conversation with the investor, I knew what to do – I saw the shape of the building – an arch rising upwards from the rubble – a desert dune – that was the first association – a form that would be modest from the front, with its size covering up what was unnecessary in the surroundings, with its openness showing off the beautiful landscape.”
The shape of this building curves reality, although its form takes on minimalist features, based on a play of understatement and contrasting masses. From every perspective it presents itself differently, surprising observers wishing to see more than just the front façade. From the entrance, it presents itself as a single-storey building with a mono-pitched roof, harmoniously following the classic patterns of local farmhouse architecture. The local materials used, such as PETERSON bricks laid vertically on the facades, optically elongate the building, directing attention to the densely stacked seams on the roof. Thanks to the colour matching used, based on shades of desert beige, the elements merge into one harmonious whole.
An important structural element is the roof, which is a plane shaped like desert dunes. The building takes the form of one of these dunes; the flowing curved line of the garden façade gives the illusion of movement, emphasised by the dynamic extension of the roof towards one of the sides. This solution conveys the characteristic structure of the dunes while masking a small storey, not visible from the front side. Thanks to this treatment, the first floor is not cut off from the ground floor, still creating an integrated coherent body. The clients wanted to use this extra space as a home relaxation centre, and complement the modern house with a sauna and home cinema.
The desert dunes are a remarkable manifestation of the movement and change that comes with nature. This is the kind of change we need. Buildings should follow the dynamics of change and modernity, but adapt to the tranquillity of less urbanised areas, which are a kind of desert of tranquillity in the current world,” added Tomaszewski.
Contrasting with the sandy colour scheme are the black steel columns strategically placed on each wall of the building. These distinct elements emphasise the essential vertical lines, giving the structure not only a refined character, but also breaking monotony and adding dynamism. They add complexity and depth to the building. The black columns also provide a subtle reference to the industrial architectural style, bringing a touch of modernity and austerity to the composition. Their contrast with the building’s sand-coloured façade also adds drama and expression, drawing the eye and encouraging a closer look at the structural details.
In this context, the modern house becomes a harmonious blend of architecture and nature, where each element has its own significance and influences the final effect. The semi-circular interior not only harmonises perfectly with its surroundings, but also creates an atmosphere of calm and unity with nature.
The development that has taken place over the years is enormous and touches every area of our lives, and in this constant race of technology, people wishing to slow down are settling in less urbanised areas, often giving up some of their own needs. This is why buildings like DUNA HOUSE represent a significant step towards the harmonious coexistence of these two worlds which does not require the comfort of living to be lost in favour of a remote location . This example shows that it is possible to create modern, functional buildings that simultaneously respect local heritage and culture.
source: REFORM ARCHITECT
Read also: Łódź | Single-family house | Modernism | Curiosities | whiteMAD on Instagram
