THE FORGOTTEN COTTAGE “ARNOŠTKA” VOL. 1

An ancient Šumava cottage comes back to life. Stripped of the layers of time, filled with light, clay plasters and a traditional stove at the heart of the house. It becomes a peaceful haven, a return to simplicity, warmth and home.

Area 540 m²
Project year: 2020 – 2021

Principal architect Zuzana & Jan Kurz

Completion year: 2021

Area 540 m²
Project year: 2020 – 2021
Principal architect Zuzana & Jan Kurz
Completion year: 2021

The meeting took place in a huge, charming cottage with a long history, which is a very personal place for the client. He plans to spend his peaceful retirement here and, in the meantime, serves as a cozy oasis of calm, offering much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle of the city and everyday work responsibilities.

Our work on this picturesque cottage consisted of rediscovering and highlighting its unique charm, quietly hidden beneath many layers of time. We peeled these layers away and restored it to its original generous dimensions. We connected the large entrance hall and living room with another equally large south-facing living room, allowing sunlight from the veranda to reach the very end of the large space, which is proudly dominated by a beautiful traditional brick stove.

The interior was designed precisely as an old Šumava cottage deserves: clay plasters with soft rounded corners, a solid oak bench and table, porcelain switches, ceramic light fixtures, brick floors, Moroccan stucco and colorful windows so typical of the region. By reviving traditional craftsmanship and materials, we and the clients created a sustainable interior full of authentic details. And honestly, who wouldn’t want to work with clients who, at the very first meeting, serve you homemade potato flatbreads freshly baked in the original brick stove?

Materials

Wood • Brick paving • Clay plaster • Ceramic lamps • Moroccan stucco

Materials