Farmstead at Slapy

Roviště: Family Homestead on the Banks of the Slapy Reservoir
In a place where the landscape sinks into the silence of the Slapy Reservoir, a family dwelling stands. Thanks to the dialogue with its surroundings, the use of local materials, and respect for the history of the place, the building, under the guidance of edit! architects, serves as an exemplary case of the approach to the restoration and updating of historical farms for the needs of modern users.

A Place Where the Past Meets the Present
The village dwelling was previously located on the site, but only remnants of the exterior walls from the original building have survived. Nonetheless, the owners wished to maintain the historical form; hence, the homestead consists of three interconnected structures that create an enclosed courtyard. Just like with most historical rural estates, the modern reinterpretation by edit! creates an urban composition in the shape of a U. The newly designed layout does not make a perfect replica of the original dwelling but draws inspiration from the historical form and sensitively paraphrases it, taking into account contemporary needs and conditions.

Due to the regulated water level, the adjacent river no longer poses a danger, allowing for the courtyard to be oriented towards the water, unlike previous arrangements. The riverbank forms a natural boundary of the property, ensuring that the orientation of the house towards the river provides both harmonious views and complete privacy for the owners and their guests.

Spatial Solution
Each of the houses has its unique function. The central building is the heart of the entire complex. Its airy character and generous dimensions offer ample space and facilities for gatherings of family and friends. The floor plan mirrors the proportions of the house that previously stood on the property, which explains the impressive size of the main living area.

The relaxation wing consists of a smaller building with three bedrooms and a living attic. The third, original house functions entirely independently and can serve as a retreat for additional guests, a place for uninterrupted rest, or as a weekend house intended for rentals.

Absence of Boundaries Between Inside and Outside
All three buildings are connected by a covered terrace. The landscape naturally meets the person here, where the boundary between the exterior and interior is almost imperceptible due to the façade solution, which includes large-scale glazing. The differences between inside and outside blur, allowing the living space to flow beyond commonly experienced definitions.

Holistic Approach
The building respects the local character not only in its form but also through the use of local materials that have always been a natural part of the landscape along the Slapy Reservoir. Granite stones from a nearby quarry, slate roof tiles, and larch wood enhance the authenticity of the homestead and seamlessly integrate it into the landscape.

Due to the quality of the natural materials used, there is no need for significant decoration to achieve the final effect within the interior. The space with its prominent massive beams appears majestic without any additional interventions.
The technological equipment includes underfloor heating and a solar pump, ensuring both comfortable and energy-efficient operation. The garden surrounding the homestead is designed with respect to the natural character of the landscape and, through a careful approach, will become an organic part of it over time.