This modern extension to a barn-style house demonstrates how a meticulously planned structure can enhance a building’s functionality without compromising its character. The project, commissioned for a family in Białołęka, Warsaw, involved creating additional living spaces, which, in terms of both appearance and materials, would form a natural extension of the existing structure – a house designed by Ruszkowski Architekci, the practice that also devised the concept for its extension to include a roofed area and a utility section. To bring this vision to life, the client commissioned Pinegard.
Modern character
The new section has been designed in a modern style that complements the existing building. The key objective was to maintain a consistent architectural style, which is why the design is dominated by black tones. The brushed, black-painted spruce boarding echoes the building’s façade, reinforcing the impression of cohesion and a deliberate approach to the material.
Although the extension required the use of long beams with large cross-sections, Pinegard regards this as a natural part of working with timber structures. However, they emphasise that their experience enables them to carry out challenging projects, and that their individual approach is not merely a hollow declaration – every project incorporates unusual technical solutions that do not detract from the building’s aesthetic lightness.
Three new functions
The project was inspired by the client’s specific needs. The extension comprises three functions: a canopy over the entrance, a carport with two parking spaces, and an enclosed utility room measuring approximately 13 square metres. The whole structure blends seamlessly with the house – the canopy flows into the so-called carport, which in turn flows into the utility area, creating a monolithic composition.
A loft has been designed within the utility room, making use of the building’s height of approximately 3.5 metres. Natural light and two pairs of doors facilitate everyday use, whilst the width of the entrance allows for the storage of a motorbike.
Practical solutions
The design also took the client’s specific requests into account. The openwork sections on the rear wall of the carport are removable – this means that, if necessary, larger equipment can be driven into the garden. On a day-to-day basis, the passageways on either side of the openwork wall are used, which is sufficient for carrying shopping or pushing a wheelbarrow through.
The greatest satisfaction comes from the visual effect, in which the additional structure does not disrupt the existing house. The structure is perceived as a single whole, and the transition between the outdoor and indoor areas remains seamless. This is an example of an extension that does not dominate, but harmoniously complements the existing architecture. The floor area of the additional structure is just over 90 square metres.
House design and extension concept: Ruszkowski Architekci
Construction of the carport with utility area: Pinegard
photographs: Emi Karpowicz
See also: Detached house | Warsaw | Minimalism | Recommended | whiteMAD on Instagram
