tri.štrnásť architekti transforms barn into family house in the czech republic

architecture studio tri.štrnásť architekti has designed a family house on a plot where a barn was once located in stará červená voda, czech republic. the architects salvaged the granite walls of the original building, inserting a new timber construction between the existing walls. a multifunctional terrace outside marks the center of the entire plot while connecting the family home with a newly-built studio/garage.all images by lukáš ildža

tri.štrnásť architekti decided to keep the granite walls of the original barn as a reminder of the great stonework of the former inhabitants. the new, timber-clad construction of the family house is placed between the granite walls, while a ventilated gap was preserved between the new and the existing building, which was covered from above by plating. a large garden outside connects the home with the newly-constructed studio/garage while acting as a multifunctional ‘square’ where residents can dry their clothes, gather with family, work on small DIY projects, and more.

the garden has been divided in two parts: the utility part, with raised flower beds at the back; and the residential part, where the terrace and a children’s pool are located. original varieties of fruit trees are gradually planted on the plot, while other, smaller constructions are added to the garden, such as a shed or an oven for baking bread. the exterior of the house is clad in tanned spruce wood, while its high pitched roof is made of black folded sheet metal.

the project is built for an elderly couple, parents of four adult children, who decided to fulfill their dream of living in a house with a garden. the total built area of house is 66 sqm, shared between a ground floor and a residential attic. the ground floor features an entrance hall, bathroom, utility room, living room with dining area and kitchen, and bedroom.  upstairs, the attic comprises one large room that serves as a bedroom for visitors, especially children with grandchildren.

project info:

architect: tri.štrnásť architekti

location: stará červená voda, czech republic