House with Gills by BEEF ARCHITEKTI

BEEF ARCHITEKTI Designed a House with “Gills” and a Jungle Heart

What makes a house truly unique? Is it the architectural design, the integration with nature, or perhaps the clever use of space? This stunning project by BEEF ARCHITEKTI (link to their website) offers a compelling answer, blending all these elements into a harmonious whole.

This design comes to life on a rather complex plot nestled within a developed area near Bratislava in Slovakia. To address privacy concerns and maximize the connection with nature, BEEF ARCHITEKTI created a house with what they call “gills”—angled walls that act as a protective shell. Let’s take a closer look at how this innovative design works and what makes this house so special.

A Protective Shell with Strategic Views

The house’s design is not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a sense of enclosure and privacy. So, how does it achieve that?

The angled walls surrounding the house serve as a protective barrier. From the outside, this design prevents unwanted views from neighboring properties. On the other hand, from the interior, these walls frame unobstructed views of the lush garden, creating a seamless connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces. This is the essence of the “gills” concept—a clever blend of privacy and openness.

Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Transition

Transition is very important. Overhanging roofs play a crucial role in blurring the lines between the inside and outside. They act as natural shading devices, shielding the interior from harsh sunlight. But they also create an intermediate zone, a transitional space that feels like an extension of the living area. It’s like having an outdoor room without actually being fully exposed to the elements. Can you imagine enjoying a meal or simply relaxing in such a space, feeling connected to nature while being sheltered from the sun or rain?

A Green Heart: The Central Atrium

At the heart of this house lies a bright central atrium, a green core that breathes life into the entire structure. This atrium is not just a decorative feature; it’s a carefully designed space that serves as a focal point for the entire house.

The “jungle” within the atrium creates a sense of tranquility and connection to nature. The main living spaces—the living room, kitchen, and dining area—are arranged around this central atrium. This ensures that natural light permeates every corner of the house and that the residents always feel connected to the verdant surroundings.

Framing the Landscape: Views from the Kitchen

Imagine working in your kitchen and having a panoramic view of tall pine trees stretching across the landscape. This is the reality for the residents of this BEEF ARCHITEKTI masterpiece.

The kitchen’s design includes a strategically placed worktop that offers an uninterrupted view of the surrounding nature. This thoughtful detail enhances the overall living experience, making everyday tasks feel more enjoyable. This is a great example of how architecture can improve your daily well being.

Privacy and Garden Views: Angled Walls in Bedrooms

Bedrooms are meant for privacy, aren’t they? In this house, the angled walls ensure that the bedrooms remain private while still offering views of the garden. This is the same principle as the “gills,” that we mentioned earlier.

The angled walls block views from neighboring properties, allowing residents to enjoy their private spaces without feeling exposed. At the same time, the strategic placement of windows provides unobstructed views of the garden. It’s a perfect balance of privacy and connection to nature.

Passive Shading and Natural Sunlight: BEEF ARCHITEKTI’s Sustainable Design

In terms of sustainability, this house incorporates several passive design strategies to minimize energy consumption and maximize comfort. The roof overhangs provide effective shading during the summer months, reducing the need for air conditioning. In winter, the design allows sunlight to penetrate the interior, warming the spaces naturally.

BEEF ARCHITEKTI carefully considered the sunlight cycle when designing the house. The eastern part of the terrace is perfect for enjoying a morning coffee, while the western and southern sides serve as the main terrace with a swimming pool. This arrangement ensures that the outdoor spaces are comfortable and usable throughout the day.

The Rooftop Pavilion: Wellness with a View

To complement the horizontal composition of the house, BEEF ARCHITEKTI added a pavilion on the roof. This pavilion houses a wellness area that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the distant Pajštún Castle.

This rooftop space provides a serene escape, a place to relax and rejuvenate while taking in the beauty of the surrounding nature. It’s a perfect ending to a tour of this house.

BEEF ARCHITEKTI: A Synthesis of Architecture and Nature

This project by BEEF ARCHITEKTI is more than just a house; it’s a carefully crafted environment that seamlessly integrates with nature. The innovative design features, such as the “gills” and the central atrium, create a unique living experience that prioritizes privacy, openness, and connection to the environment.

The attention to detail, from the strategic placement of windows to the sustainable design strategies, demonstrates BEEF ARCHITEKTI’s commitment to creating functional and beautiful spaces. This is a house that truly enhances the lives of its residents, offering a sanctuary where they can connect with nature, relax, and recharge.

Key Takeaways

• The “gills” concept effectively balances privacy and openness.
• The central atrium creates a vibrant green core.
• Passive design strategies promote energy efficiency and comfort.
• The rooftop pavilion offers a wellness escape with stunning views.

This house showcases how good architectural design can elevate the living experience. What is your favorite feature of this house?

All images c by BEEF ARCHITEKTI and Matej Hakár. Feel free to browse through WE AND THE COLOR’s Architecture category for more inspiring projects from around the globe.