Facha Architekti Inserts Contemporary ‘Box in the Barn’ Retreat in Czech Republic

Facha Architekti has completed “The Box in the Barn,” a striking contemporary living unit seamlessly inserted into an old barn structure in Brtev, Lázně Bělohrad, Czech Republic. Designed as a seasonal retreat for a client, the project prioritizes the preservation of the barn’s authentic character while introducing a distinct, independent dwelling.

Respect for the Existing Structure

The design philosophy behind “The Box in the Barn” was rooted in a deep respect for the existing agricultural building. Instead of a full renovation, the studio opted to create a new, independent structure within the barn. This approach ensures that the original building’s integrity and historical presence remain paramount. The new timber volume is designed as a “clearly legible contemporary insertion,” structurally separate from the old barn, allowing both elements to coexist harmoniously.

Form and Materiality

The new dwelling takes the form of a simple timber volume wrapped in a black asphalt facade. Its geometry is derived from the form of the barn itself, creating a dialogue between the old and the new. This contrast is a key motif, generating a visual tension that highlights the distinct eras of construction. A significant design element is the visual axis established through the barn’s threshing floor, extending towards the garden and the surrounding landscape. This axis is reflected in the internal layout and the placement of a large panoramic window and dining table, connecting the interior to the exterior environment.

The inserted structure is slightly elevated above the original barn floor, which remains open and accessible beneath it. A concrete surface, extending seamlessly from the courtyard, acts as a transition zone between the exterior, the barn’s open space, and the interior of the new dwelling.

Minimalist Interior Design

The interior of “The Box in the Barn” is characterized by a restrained aesthetic, with minimal formal gestures and a strong emphasis on natural materiality. Birch plywood is the predominant material, lending a warm and organic feel to the space. This is complemented by black-dyed MDF boards, which are used for the integrated block housing the kitchen, bathroom, and essential storage solutions. The design prioritizes functionality and a sense of calm.

Sustainable Adaptation

Structurally, the project employs a lightweight timber frame construction using KVH beams with a vapour-open assembly. While primarily intended for seasonal use, the inclusion of insulation and underfloor heating makes year-round habitation possible. The barn itself acts as a natural climatic buffer, offering protection against overheating and adverse weather. Facha Architekti views this adaptation of an existing structure, rather than the construction of a new building, as a crucial aspect of the project’s sustainability.

About Facha Architekti

Facha Architekti is a four-member studio deeply involved in all phases of the design and construction process. They have a particular affinity for transforming and adapting existing structures. Their portfolio often includes family housing and seasonal recreational spaces, alongside public spaces and smaller urban interventions. The studio emphasizes that generosity in design is not solely defined by scale, and their approach is grounded in rational analysis while valuing intuition and passion.

Key facts

This project is relevant to Paionia7 readers interested in innovative residential architecture, adaptive reuse of existing structures, and sustainable design practices. It highlights how contemporary design can coexist with historical buildings, offering a model for sensitive and thoughtful architectural interventions.

Source: Amazing Architecture, https://amazingarchitecture.com/houses/the-box-in-the-barn-brtev-lazne-belohrad-czech-republic-by-facha-architekti