MFRMGR inserts cutout terraces to cuboid concrete house settling within polish village

in a village near warsaw, poland, architecture firm MFRMGR has designed ‘house M7’, taking shape as a cuboid concrete dwelling with cut-out terraces and a private central courtyard. placed on a rectangular plot far from the main road, the residence opens towards the quiet residential surroundings and the lush greenery, adopting a local character. 

all images courtesy of MFRMGR

the design process by MFRMGR began by talking to the occupants and identifying their needs. therefore, an inner courtyard was formed to serve as the unifying point in the house, making it possible to see the natural surroundings practically from every part of the building. thanks to this patio area, as well as the cut-out openings of the seemingly closed concrete block, natural light is able to penetrate the interior, generating a well-lit living environment where intimacy is still maintained.

viewing axes were preserved throughout the ground floor, with strategic openings allowing the household members to have a direct visual connection from one room to another. for example, residents in the living room can see what is going on in the kitchen, while the vegetation behind the house is clearly visible from the entrance of the dwelling. here, occupants have the chance to enjoy the protected foyer, and experience the outside views at the same time.

the volumetry of the house is simple and neutral, so that its shape relates to the plot. emerging as a concrete cuboid with cut-out façades, the structure adopts a uniform grey shade in its entirety. the only detail of the design is the integration of the simple steel flat bar railings. the window recesses, together with the discreet aluminum joinery, contrast with the rough façade.

on the ground floor, the design allocates the main living areas, including an entrance zone, study, toilet, kitchen with facilities and a living room. meanwhile, the first floor houses the private rooms, such as the bedrooms, the laundry room, and the guest room. on this level, there is also a large terrace accessible to all users of the building, where a food preparation area is also added so that residents can enjoy their meal without having to access the kitchen on the ground floor. 

project info: 

name: house M7
architects: MFRMGR architects
project team: marta frejda, michał gratkowski, waldemar nowicki, łukasz ptak
location: warsaw, poland
area: 284.5 sqm (3062 sqft)