Zhouse

The architectural concept of the family house in the village of Dubová (Pezinok District) is based on an interpretation of the traditional settlement structure located deeper within the plot, translated into a contemporary architectural form with a strong emphasis on context, scale, and landscape relationships. The design responds to the requirement for housing for a young family, with a focus on functional efficiency, environmental sustainability, and a sensitive integration into the agrarian vineyard landscape at the transition between the village core and surrounding countryside.

The urban strategy follows the linear principle of development along one side of the plots, characteristic of the local context, complemented by covered entrances and secondary structures that define a continuous street edge. This principle forms the fundamental compositional framework of the design.

The building consists of a compact volume combining a flat and pitched roof, gently embedded into the terrain and extended by an integrated carport. The northern and eastern façades are designed as restrained, closed surfaces that clearly articulate the entrance and service functions of the house. The main entrance is located on the north-west side and is accentuated by a covered threshold space, enhanced by top lighting and a differentiated material treatment. In contrast, the southern façade opens towards the garden through generous glazing and a covered terrace, which also serves a climatic function by providing protection and shading during the summer period.

The spatial layout is based on a central living core that integrates the entrance hall, living room, dining area, kitchen, and a work corner located on a loft level. This open space acts as the main organizational and social hub of the house, with individual functional zones arranged radially around it. The layout prioritizes living spaces with direct contact to the exterior. By minimizing circulation areas and integrating them into the main living volume, the concept strengthens the central space as the primary element of daily family life. This hierarchical spatial principle is directly reflected in the architectural expression of the building.

The material concept emphasizes the hierarchy of individual functional zones. A restrained palette of materials—wood, coarse-textured comb-scraped plaster, and fine plaster in light grey tones—creates a subtle material composition that highlights the plasticity of the volumes. The contrast between rough and smooth surfaces enhances the legibility of the architectural form. Exposed structural elements utilize CLT panels and glued laminated timber beams, reinforcing the constructional logic of the building. The green roof contributes to improved thermal performance and stabilizes the indoor microclimate, particularly during summer months. Rainwater is collected in a retention tank for subsequent reuse. The building is further equipped with a mechanical ventilation system with heat recovery and a ground heat exchanger, as well as external screen shading, ensuring energy efficiency and a stable indoor environmental quality.