A home is a living entity. It should adapt and grow alongside the people within it. This fundamental idea often presents a profound architectural puzzle. The Medník House, a brilliant extension by Päivä Architekti, offers a compelling solution. This project provides a powerful narrative on how to thoughtfully expand a historic home to meet contemporary desires. It is far more than just adding square footage. Instead, it is a graceful conversation between the old and the new, the built form and the wild landscape.
The original home, built early in the 20th century, sits perched on a rocky slope over the Sázava River in the Czech Republic. A previous renovation in 2010 had already extended the structure. However, life changes, and so do our needs. The owners required a new, open studio for creative pursuits, a space drenched in natural light. This new area also needed a quiet, separate sleeping zone complete with a bathroom. So, how do you introduce a significant new structure without diminishing the site’s inherent magic?
A Dialogue Between Past and Present
The challenge was to create something new that honored the existing context. Päivä Architekti’s solution shows incredible sensitivity and restraint. Instead of attaching a conventional addition, they conceived a completely freestanding object. This new building rests gently at the edge of the property, where the cultivated garden meets the forest. This careful placement was a critical decision. Consequently, it preserves the breathtaking views from the original house and garden toward the Sázava valley and the peak of Medník hill. The architects meticulously studied the wedge-shaped land, the terrain’s contours, and the existing mature trees.
What truly elevates this project is the connection between the two structures. An elegant covered terrace bridges the gap between the old and new volumes. Yet, this is no simple hallway. It masterfully incorporates a full-grown oak tree, literally wrapping around its trunk. This gesture transforms the architecture. The tree is not an obstacle to be conquered but a celebrated participant in the design. This profound integration of nature is a core reason for the Medník House’s undeniable success.
The Medník House and Its Respect for Place
The design of the extension itself is a masterclass in minimalist, functional beauty. The morphology of the new volume subtly echoes the lines of the original house, forging a clear visual connection. However, it unapologetically speaks a modern architectural language. Inside, the main studio is a soaring double-height space that maximizes the feeling of openness and creative freedom. Expansive sliding glass windows dissolve the wall facing the terrace. This design choice floods the interior with daylight and offers seamless access to the outdoors.
A simple hanging gallery is inserted into the studio, offering a more intimate, elevated perch. This clever use of verticality adds another layer of function without cluttering the main floor. The interior is lined with warm spruce bioboard, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere. Furthermore, all furniture and storage are integrated directly into the structure, maintaining a clean and uncluttered aesthetic. The side of the building facing the original home remains more solid and closed, which creates a necessary sense of privacy.
The Power of Craft and Natural Materials
One of the most inspiring aspects of the Medník House project is the owner’s deep, personal involvement in its creation. A specialized firm managed the complex micropile foundations. After that, the owner took over, constructing the supporting steel frame and the timber superstructure in a self-build capacity. This hands-on process surely forged an unbreakable bond between the owner and the new space. It weaves a story of personal investment and craftsmanship that feels increasingly rare.
The material selection further strengthens the building’s connection to its natural setting. The exterior is clad in beautiful tanned larch. This durable wood will develop a graceful patina over time, allowing the building to settle into the landscape. This particular wood is an excellent choice for the climate. It helps the new structure blend organically with its forested backdrop. Ultimately, the Medník House offers a powerful lesson. It proves that you can add space and modern functionality while deeply respecting the character of an old home. It is a stunning reminder that the best architecture works in harmony with its surroundings, not against them.
All images © Päivä Architekti. Feel free to browse WE AND THE COLOR’s Architecture category for more.
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