Have you ever looked at an industrial site and thought, “There’s potential here?” Most of us probably wouldn’t. But Gabriela and Vojtěch Juřenčák of Eko modular saw something special in a derelict patch of land in Tvrdonice, South Moravia. What if, instead of just fixing up the place, they built their lives and their business right there? And what if they did it all with innovative, sustainable modular architecture? That’s exactly what they, in collaboration with Semela Ateliers, did. The result? A stunning example of how modular construction can be both beautiful and highly functional.
Forget the old image of prefabricated buildings. We’re talking about a space where family life, work, and ecological principles aren’t just compatible; they’re intertwined. But how did this begin? What does it mean for the future of building? And what can we learn from this approach?

From Industrial Ruins to Living Showcase
The journey started with a leap of faith. Gabriela and Vojtěch were passionate about modular timber construction. They knew this approach offered a truly sustainable way to build, but they felt the priorities were not aligned in their previous company, so they decided to start their own journey. They chose a derelict site in Tvrdonice not for its beauty but for its potential. And their vision was radical. They wanted to live and work there and not just in any building but a building that embodied their principles.
Imagine moving your family to a construction site. Most would probably recoil at the idea. But, this move allowed them to understand the space in a more intimate way. It allowed them to really engage with the challenges and the opportunities present in the area. It gave them an intimate understanding of the site, and this understanding informed all of their design choices. They started living in a showcase module right on site. It allowed them to truly experience the potential of their modular system firsthand. It’s a testament to their belief in the system and the type of architecture they envisioned.
The Modular Advantage: Speed, Sustainability, and Flexibility
What makes modular construction so special? Well, the answer is a lot. For one thing, it’s fast. The units are produced quickly off-site and then assembled on-site. This leads to less disruption and a much quicker timeline for projects. It is also lightweight but very robust. You don’t need to pour traditional foundations either. It is also sustainable. Modular systems are created from timber, a renewable resource, and they can be expanded, relocated, and recycled. Is it possible that modular could be the future of building?
This isn’t just about speed or efficiency. It’s about creating a truly healthy environment for work and living. Eko modular understands that these spaces can have a real impact on us. And they believe that modular architecture is an integral part of the solution.
A Harmonious Blend of Form and Function
So, how did Eko modular and Semela Ateliers transform the industrial site? The goal was to create a visually pleasing and livable space. The design, led by Semela Ateliers from Zlín, was focused on seamlessly integrating the industrial, residential, and natural aspects of the site. A biotope was a must. And adding greenery throughout the site was key.
The resulting design is an architectural masterclass in how to integrate industrial function with a human-centered design. The project is divided into the company’s headquarters and family home. The headquarters, a long, single-story building, serves as a natural screen to the industrial activities of the site. It also acts as a barrier shielding the home from noise. The family home, built vertically, contrasts with the headquarters, creating an aesthetic tension on the site. The facades, all wood, are both aesthetically pleasing and a powerful statement of the company’s values.
The minimalist design speaks volumes about the company’s ethos. It’s about simplicity, efficiency, and a commitment to sustainable practices. These structures aren’t just beautiful; they’re thoughtful. And they’re a powerful testament to what sustainable architecture can achieve.
Inside the Modules: A Closer Look
Let’s take a closer look at the structures themselves. The headquarters consists of three modular units. Inside, the layout accommodates both private offices and open meeting spaces. The family home is a two-story modular building that utilizes the foundations of a former outbuilding, which required some adjustments and customizations. The ground floor is the living space. Upstairs, you’ll find bedrooms, a library, and a rooftop terrace. The design is strategic. The side facing the production area is compact with discreet windows. The side facing the inner courtyard is open, providing access to the beautiful exterior with a pond and sauna module.
But the details truly set this project apart. The building is not only aesthetically pleasing but functional. Take for example the sauna and outdoor pond. They offer a space for relaxation all year round. They also can be used as a venue for social gatherings. These are not just extra features. They are key elements in creating a healthy living environment.
The Art of Sustainable Living
The combination of natural materials and modern technology is where the architecture truly shines. The design maximizes natural light and fresh air circulation. There is also an advanced heat recovery system and an indirect lighting system to create a healthy indoor environment.
The interior spaces feature wood, which adds warmth. The common areas have wooden elements and monochrome screed floors. Large glass walls connect the indoors to the outdoors, maximizing the connection to the natural surroundings. During the summer, solar heating is controlled with shades and exterior blinds. Glass partitions and pivot doors enhance the sense of openness.
The project’s commitment to sustainability doesn’t end with the materials. The site features green roofs and lots of vegetation that help with the microclimate. Photovoltaic panels with battery storage and an air-to-air heat pump system provide energy self-sufficiency. Rainwater is harvested and used to water the landscape.
A Beacon of Possibility
This project is far more than just an architectural accomplishment. It represents a vision for a better way to live and work. It offers a compelling model for the future of building: a future that is not only efficient but also beautiful and sustainable. It’s about creating spaces that contribute to our well-being. Spaces that also contribute to the well-being of the planet.
Gabriela and Vojtěch Juřenčák didn’t just build a house or an office; they created a living testament to their values. They are not just building structures. They are building a lifestyle. By blending innovation, ecological awareness, and a profound connection to place, they have produced something truly special. This project is not just inspiring. It is an invitation to reimagine our relationship with the built world. What would you create if you could build with a similar approach? And how can we apply these innovative design principles in our lives?
All images © by BoysPlayNice, Eko modular, and Semela Ateliers. Enjoy other interesting architecture projects on WE AND THE COLOR.
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