päivä architekti's Medník House Extends a Rural Czech Dwelling
Medník House by Czech studio Päivä Architekti expands a century-old home located on a rocky hillside above the Sázava River in the Czech Republic. The new addition is a light-filled steel and timber studio that blends with its natural surroundings.
Site and Design Context
The extension is positioned at the junction of a forest and garden, shaped by the wedge-like terrain and framed by mature trees. From the garden, the renovated house aligns with distant views of the valley and Medník Hill, preserving an open and airy character typical of the site.
Architectural Features
- The new volume is a freestanding studio connected to the original house by a covered terrace.
- The terrace wraps around an existing oak tree, which remains a central element in the design.
- A covered walkway extends toward the garden, creating a smooth transition between indoor and outdoor spaces and encouraging daily movement outside.
Interior Composition
The studio is an open double-height space full of natural light, with sliding glass walls facing the valley. Inside, a compact gallery overlooks the work area, offering a quiet retreat within the volume.
"From the garden, the renovated structure aligns with long views toward the valley and the top of Medník Hill, which serves to maintain the sense of openness that defines the character of the site."
Architectural Expression
The simple geometry of the new building echoes the original house's form but reflects a contemporary interpretation by Päivä Architekti. The structural design blends skilled craftsmanship with functional practicality.
Summary: Päivä Architekti’s Medník House thoughtfully extends a historic Czech home by merging modern studio design with natural surroundings, preserving openness while enhancing living space.