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The Zen House is a tiny, 33-square-meter elevated cabin designed by architect Jan Tyrpekl for a farm complex in Hainburg an der Donau, Austria. Completed in 2023, the cabin was commissioned to provide a unique and serene retreat for relaxation, offering a deep connection with the surrounding nature, which includes an orchard and mature trees. The dwelling is perched on 4-meter-high concrete stilts, allowing the landscape to flow unimpeded beneath and creating a feeling of being in a "bird's nest," which offers a sense of security and intimacy. The structure is built from sustainable materials, featuring a frame of glued laminated spruce timbers and a platform and roof of cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels. The lower part of the structure and the terrace are made from glued laminated larch timbers. The most prominent feature of the design is the extensive use of glass walls, which enclose the entire living space to provide uninterrupted, 360-degree views of the natural surroundings. For privacy, interior curtains can be drawn. The open-plan interior is designed for simplicity and comfort. It includes a built-in bed, a connected bar/kitchenette, and a suspended fireplace that creates a cozy, warm atmosphere. The space is divided into distinct zones for sleeping, sitting, and conversing. Large HS portals—sliding doors—provide access to a spacious terrace overlooking the farm's orchard. While the current cabin lacks a bathroom and cooking facilities, plans are in place for a future expansion that will add a sauna, shower, and toilet in the space between the supporting pillars beneath the house. Credits Architects: JAN TYRPEKL Lead Architect: Jan Tyrpekl Photographer: Jakub Hrab Manufacturers: 2MAD Building s.r.o., DÍLO.work, Okna Jánošík Structure Engineer: 2MAD s.r.o. Project Manager: 2MAD s.r.o. Location: Hainburg an der Donau, Austria
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JAN TYRPEKL
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JAN TYRPEKL:
Jan Tyrpekl is a Czech architect known for his sustainable and context-sensitive projects, often using natural and local materials to integrate with the environment. His work, which includes self-built and collaborative designs, often focuses on minimalist and functional forms, such as the Zen House in Austria and the Atelier in the Czech Republic. His practice emphasizes a deep connection with the landscape, with a portfolio of award-winning projects that are frequently featured in international design publications. While based in Prague, Tyrpekl works on projects across the region, including in neighboring Austria.
