In South Bohemia, the Czech Republic’s historic region that borders northern Austria and eastern Germany, the fabled storybook architecture that the capital is so loved for is just as prominent. And yet, while the red-roofed, pastel candy coloured houses anchor the region’s heritage, Czech architects are showing that it’s not all that Bohemia is capable of being known for.

That’s why, in Litvínovice – five kilometres south of southern Bohemia’s capital city České Budějovic, Prague-based Atelier 111 constructed a surprisingly minimal 262 sqm family home. Responding to an ‘oversaturated environment,’ the practice had two regulations specific to the area to work within: gabled rooves and a maximum building height. The house is built two metres from the boundary of the plot, the minimum set in place – a solution which ultimately enabled extra space for the private garden and possible extension of public pavement.

But, being the black sheep in the neighbourhood also offers up a vision on how to approach increased housing needs through family houses in emerging suburban districts. While the aesthetic typology strays from the traditional, the minimal interiors visually refer back to functional Japanese design and propose the value of incorporating similar elements in an unexpected setting.

A T-shaped open floor plan presents a kitchen, dining and living room, all of which are only separated by furniture. Frameless windows enhance the feeling of boundless space and look out into a covered terrace in the garden. The bedrooms, which are situated in the northern part of the house, are connected by a small atrium that can be fitted with a small hammock or outdoor bath.

Through natural materials, colours and craft furniture, the interior space becomes a visual solace – and exciting outlier – wtih interpretable design that is understandably beneficial for families with constantly shifting spatial needs.

atelier111.cz