Nestled within the stunning Šumava National Park in Czech Republic, this cottage, crafted by Markéta Cajthamlová Studio, masterfully balances stringent conservation standards with the client’s yearning for breathtaking vistas. Designed to echo the charm of a traditional cottage, its gable roof adorned with a half hip, dark-stained wooden cladding, and recycled stone elements seamlessly integrate with the surrounding landscape. Expansive frameless windows capture the picturesque beauty of the Šumava terrain, while a prominent large window beneath the roof subtly nods to Alpine architectural styles.
The design features green ventilation openings that mimic classic shutters, further anchoring the cottage within its natural context. The layout is thoughtfully arranged, following the principles of a rural house, with clearly defined living and service areas. Utilizing the Novatop wooden panel system, the interiors showcase visible spruce, complemented by built-in furniture crafted from spruce, maple, and black steel, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that serves as a tranquil retreat infused with both contextual and Alpine influences.
Given the land’s designation within Šumava National Park, the design adheres to strict guidelines regarding the building’s shape. To ensure harmony with the environment, the traditional cottage form was selected. To fulfill the client’s desire for stunning views, large windows were strategically placed to frame various perspectives, from the distant horizon of the Šumava saddle to the intricate details of nearby birch roots.
The cottage embodies the distinctive local character, featuring a generous width, alignment parallel to the land’s contours, minimal landscaping, and the absence of a fence. The protruding rizalit and the gable roof with a half hip further enhance its traditional appeal. The large window beneath the roof serves as an abstract homage to the Alpine Gallery, enriching the overall design with a sense of place and history.
Traditional materials were employed in colors that echoed the original buildings, featuring dark stained wood for the facade and locally sourced recycled stone for the plinth, low retaining walls, and terraces. The design drew inspiration from the commonly used green shutters, leading to the creation of full ventilation openings that beautifully complement the frameless windows.
The layout of the house mirrors that of a classic country residence, comprising distinct living and service areas. The service area and back door are positioned to the north, while the living room, complete with a grand fireplace, and the main entrance face south, offering picturesque views. The attic is thoughtfully designed with three rooms, a hall, and a bathroom.
In the construction, the Novatop system was utilized, featuring wooden panels that reveal a spruce board interior. This spruce serves as the inner wall surface and the cladding for the truss. The facade showcases board cladding made from black-brown stained spruce, while the roof is crafted from folded dark gray aluminum sheet. The windows are frameless triple-glazed units, with full openings constructed from aluminum profiles.
The flooring design incorporates large-format black slate on the ground floor, transitioning to Nordic spruce in the attic. Built-in furniture artfully combines solid spruce and maple boards, supported by sleek black steel frames. A striking rough ash dining table takes center stage in the living room, adding a rustic charm to the space.
Heating is efficiently managed by an internal air-water heat pump, ensuring comfort throughout the home. Additionally, the property boasts its own well and sump, enhancing its self-sufficiency and sustainability.