Few people can afford to live in such an unusual location. In a former fortress in the Czech Republic, a spacious space has been created that combines old architectural fabric with modern design. It is an attractive mix that will appeal not only to fans of minimalism. However, adapting the building to a contemporary residential function was not easy. The repeated drying of the lowest floor was one of the many obstacles.
The interior in the former fortress was designed by architects from the OOOOX studio. The historic building was reconstructed and transformed into a modern living space. The fortress, whose history dates back to the Middle Ages, is distinguished by the vaulted ceilings on the ground floor and the timber of the upper floors. Other details such as the old tiled cooker add to the atmosphere.
The architects’ task was to restore as many elements as possible and complement the space with modern solutions.
The interior is accessed at first floor level. There is a living area with a living room, dining room, separate kitchen and guest room. Higher up, bedrooms with bathrooms have been designed. The architects had the most work to do in the ground floor area. As is common with similar buildings, the weakness of the former fortress is dampness. The original stone wall was very damp, so the top layer was removed so that the structure could breathe. Only the lower part of the perimeter walls was covered with plaster. The drying process was repeated several times. The aim was to remove the maximum amount of moisture from the walls. The new floors were built in such a way as to allow air flow. Even the new stair construction was built similarly.
The upper floor is completely different, where wooden structures appear. The planks have been cleaned and oiled. On this floor is the original tiled cooker, which has been restored. The floor in front of the cooker has been completed with brick pavers. The architects also preserved the original roof in the attic, only filling in the cavities.
The house in the former fortress, however, is modern. Modern technology such as underfloor heating with heat pump and recuperation has been installed throughout the interior. The interior has been designed in a modern spirit. The exposed stone elements are painted grey, the passageways through the massive load-bearing walls are framed by a thin cladding of raw steel. This is a strong element that gives the interior its original character.
design: OOOOX, www.instagram.com/oooox_com
photos: Martin Zeman, www.datelier.cz
Also read: Bohemia | Brick | Metamorphosis | Interiors | Renovation | Featured | whiteMAD on Instagram
