The proposal is for the design of a new family house at the outskirts of the city of Prague.

The site consists of a relatively flat, rectangular plot of land. The access road is located to the North side of the land. The surrounding area is predominantly residential marked by a new wave of development throughout the wider area.

Following the current trend, we are proposing a contemporary and minimalist approach for the design of the new dwelling. The house is set back from the front boundary and placed centrally on the plot. That allows for a deep front garden which creates a sense of privacy leaving enough space for a rear garden accommodating the swimming pool, patio areas and garden facilities.

The design is characterized by its complex shape which plays an important role in the entering process giving a unique spatial experience to the user. The house is organised in an ‘’H’’ shape arrangement allowing for a clear distinction of the uses; also, reflected in the massing of the house. Living areas are organised within the single storey element while private and secondary areas are organised within the two-storey element. Fenestration has been kept to the minimum by introducing narrow vertical openings, thus minimizing cost.

The main entrance of the house is achieved via the central element which creates an in-between space distributing all areas. The nature of this space creates almost an ecclesiastical sense by its double height and its featured staircase. The staircase has been designed as a piece of furniture which offers the possibility of displaying objects, but also creating an open plan reading area. The cloak room and WC are located in retreat.

The single storey element contains the kitchen with utility room, the dining and living area. A secondary entrance is directly linked to the utility room. The dining area is marked with a change in floor material. A fire place / TV furniture separates the dining and the living area. All living areas have direct access to outdoor spaces. At first floor level the single storey element offers the possibility of a green roof.

The two-storey element contains at ground floor level the cloakroom, WC, study, one master bedroom with walking wardrobe and en-suite and a secondary bedroom with also walking wardrobe and en-suite. At first floor level, there is a second master bedroom with walking wardrobe and en-suite, a double bedroom and a bedroom with two beds (Bunk). Also, there is a family bathroom which is linked to a utility ‘’corner’’ allowing for storage but also for the possibility to have a laundry area at first floor level.

The materials have been chosen as to highlight the design principle and to reveal the quality of the design. The central element is proposed to be in Corten metal cladding while the single storey and two storey elements to be in cement board-off white cladding.

The front boundary is treated, in line with the surrounding area properties, with a 1.8m height wall constructed with light grey brickwork ensuring privacy. The property is accessed via a pedestrian gate which also includes provisions for letter box and house naming. A second metal gate provides direct access to the refuse store which is also accessed from the inside of the property. A metal sliding gate provides vehicular access. A low metal fence is proposed to the flanks and rear boundaries. A 1.8m rendered wall with aluminium coping is proposed around the swimming pool along the boundaries. This is to allow privacy and to distinguish the area of the swimming pool.

The surroundings of the dwelling are treated with soft and hard landscaping. There is covered with pergola patio area, a barbecue area and the swimming pool area. A shallow fountain is located in continuity of the central element highlighting the overall design principle. Gravel stripes are located along the boundaries and as a transition element between the different treatment surface. The garden benefits from a garden shed.