päivä architekti's medník house extends and revives a rural czech dwelling
Medník House by Czech studio Päivä Architekti expands a century-old hillside home into a bright steel and timber studio. Located on a rocky slope above the Sázava River, the new volume sits between forest and garden, shaped by the wedge-like terrain and framed by mature trees.
From the garden, the renovated structure aligns with long views toward the valley and Medník Hill’s summit, preserving the openness that defines the site’s character. The addition is a freestanding studio connected to the original house by a covered terrace.
This terrace wraps around an existing oak tree, allowing it to remain a focal point in the design. A covered walkway extends toward the garden, blending interior and landscape while extending daily movement outdoors.
Interior design and architectural approach
Inside, the studio features an open, double-height space flooded with daylight through sliding glass walls facing the valley. A compact gallery hangs quietly above the working area, creating a secluded retreat within the volume.
The building’s minimalist geometry reflects the form of the original house but is articulated through a modern lens. The structure balances craftsmanship with practical design principles.
"A covered walkway stretches toward the garden, softening the transition between interior and landscape and extending the rhythm of daily movement outdoors."
"The restrained geometry of the new building mirrors the morphology of the original house, though expressed by the architects through a more contemporary lens."
Author’s summary: Päivä Architekti revitalized a historic Czech home by adding a light-filled studio that harmoniously blends modern design with the natural landscape and existing architecture.