Nestled within the pristine beauty of the Šumava National Park in the Czech Republic, this cottage by Markéta Cajthamlová Studio is an architectural triumph. It seamlessly blends traditional aesthetics with modern functionality, respecting its surroundings’ environmental and cultural heritage.
Design Rooted in Tradition
The cottage adheres to strict building requirements enforced within the national park. Its form pays homage to the traditional Czech rural cottage. The design embraces features such as a wide structure, a gable roof with a half hip, and minimal landscaping to preserve the natural terrain. These details firmly root the building in its local context, creating an aesthetic that feels timeless and grounded.
The absence of fences and the integration of the structure parallel to the land’s natural contours enhance its sense of belonging to the landscape. The use of dark-stained wood for the facade, and locally sourced recycled stone for the plinth and retaining walls further connect the design to its regional architectural heritage.
Thoughtful Use of Space
The cottage’s layout mirrors the functionality of traditional rural homes, balancing living and service areas. The northern side accommodates a service area and back entrance, while the southern side opens into the living spaces with large windows framing breathtaking views. A spacious living room, featuring a prominent fireplace, acts as the home’s centerpiece.
The attic, accessible via a central staircase, hosts three cozy rooms, a hallway, and a bathroom. This arrangement provides an ideal balance of privacy and communal space, making it perfect for a family retreat.
Materiality and Craftsmanship
Traditional materials take center stage in this project. The Novatop system of wooden panels, combined with visible spruce boards, forms the structure and interior cladding. The roof, made of folded dark-gray aluminum sheets, ensures durability and weather resistance while maintaining a sleek appearance.
The frameless triple-glazed windows allow for uninterrupted views, while ventilation openings inspired by traditional green shutters add a subtle historical nod. Black slate flooring on the ground level and Nordic spruce in the attic contribute to a cozy yet elegant atmosphere.
Custom-built furniture, combining solid spruce and maple boards with black steel frames, emphasizes craftsmanship. A standout feature is the rough-hewn ash dining table, which anchors the living space with its robust and natural presence.
Sustainability Meets Comfort
The cottage incorporates sustainable systems to ensure minimal environmental impact. It features floor heating powered by an air-to-water heat pump, as well as a private well and sump for water needs. These eco-friendly solutions harmonize with the park’s conservation principles.
Framing Nature
Large frameless windows and thoughtfully placed openings capture the natural surroundings in an almost cinematic way. Whether it’s the distant Šumava saddle or the intricate roots of nearby birch trees, every view becomes a living artwork.
The interplay of light and shadow within the interior transforms the space throughout the day, creating a dynamic connection between the home and its environment.
A Quiet Statement in Design
Markéta Cajthamlová Studio has crafted a home that feels at once modern and timeless, practical and poetic. This cottage is a testament to how architecture can respect tradition, embrace innovation, and celebrate the natural world.
Photography by Petr Polák captures the essence of this harmonious retreat, showcasing the thoughtful details that make this project a standout example of modern rural architecture.
All images © by Markéta Cajthamlová Studio and Petr Polák. Feel free to find other interesting projects in the Architecture and Interior Design categories on WE AND THE COLOR. Listen to our podcast episode where we discuss the sustainable principles of this cottage.
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