The Hradby House project, undertaken by OOOOX, stands as a demonstration to the delicate balance between historical preservation and contemporary living. This meticulous reconstruction of a medieval fortification guardhouse in the Czech Republic is more than just a renovation; it’s a dialogue across centuries, where the whispers of the past resonate beautifully with the comforts of modern design.
OOOOX’s approach was one of profound respect for the building’s layered history. The guardhouse, with its origins in the Middle Ages, presented a unique challenge: how to breathe new life into a structure steeped in time while retaining its authentic character. The architects, working in close collaboration with enlightened clients, embraced this challenge, aiming to restore as many original elements as possible and seamlessly integrate them with a contemporary interior.
The house unfolds across three distinct floors, each narrating its own unique tale. The ground floor stands as a robust testament to the building’s fortified history, showcasing exposed stone walls and impressive vaulted ceilings. Modern helical steel braces have been thoughtfully integrated, reinforcing the vaults while preserving their striking visual appeal. Acknowledging the natural dampness that often plagues such structures, OOOOX devised a comprehensive strategy to tackle this challenge.
To facilitate proper ventilation, plaster was meticulously removed, allowing the walls to breathe freely. Rehabilitation plaster was then applied selectively to the lower sections, with multiple layers ensuring optimal moisture extraction. The remaining interior plasterwork received a glazed and finely polished finish, resulting in a captivating interplay of reflections and textures that dance across the surfaces.
On the upper floor, light outlets were strategically placed to uphold the visual integrity of the vaulted ceilings. Beneath the surface, an innovative “igloo” system and perimeter drainage work tirelessly to combat moisture, while the staircase leading to the upper level is cleverly ventilated from below. The dramatic stone walls are further enhanced by an illuminated handrail, creating a striking contrast between the rugged texture of the stone and the sleek, smooth plastered surfaces.
Ascending to the first floor, the atmosphere shifts dramatically. Here, the ruggedness of the ground floor gives way to the warmth of wood. Restored tiled stoves, a cherished element of the original structure, take center stage, while hand-painted ceiling beams, meticulously restored using reactive stains, add a touch of historical artistry. The original wooden floor planks were carefully hand-brushed and oiled to a subtle gray tone, preserving their character while offering a fresh aesthetic. The floor in front of the stove is adorned with reclaimed attic tiles, sourced from local bazaars, adding another layer of authenticity. The absence of baseboards, replaced by flexible expansion joints, contributes to a clean and uncluttered look.
The attic level, bathed in natural light, reveals the full majesty of the preserved historic roof. Above-rafter insulation ensures energy efficiency without obscuring the original structure. Where necessary, beam replacements were meticulously hand-hewn to match the existing woodwork. The deck padding, crafted with precision, avoids unnecessary ornamentation.
While reverence for the past is evident throughout the house, OOOOX seamlessly integrated modern technologies. Underfloor heating powered by a heat pump, coupled with a recuperation system, ensures contemporary comfort and energy efficiency. These modern systems are thoughtfully concealed, with period cast iron grills used for ventilation, ensuring they don’t visually disrupt the historical ambiance. A fireplace insert in the living room adds a touch of traditional warmth and complements the modern heating system.
The interior design strikes a delicate balance between old and new. The exposed stonework is painted in subtle gray tones, while raw waxed steel frames the passages through the load-bearing walls, adding a touch of industrial chic. The ground floor features small-format tiles laid in a “dovetail” pattern. In the dining room, a large circular table with engraved coordinates marking significant moments in the clients’ lives serves as a focal point, illuminated by a striking multi-armed chandelier. The kitchen, nestled within the vaulted space, boasts a custom-designed unit that respects the architectural curves while providing all modern amenities. The furniture, including the built-in pieces, is fully ventilated. A solid wood central island with a stainless steel countertop anchors the space, while other kitchen elements feature steel doors.
Hradby House is more than just a reconstruction; it is a conversation between past and present. OOOOX has masterfully woven together the layers of history with the demands of modern living, creating a home that is both deeply rooted in its heritage and perfectly suited for contemporary life. This project stands as a compelling example of how sensitive restoration and thoughtful design can transform a historic structure into a timeless and inspiring space.