The Black Teahouse, designed by the Prague-based A1Architects, is a small, family-owned gathering space in Česká Lípa, Czech Republic. Completed in 2011, it is situated on the southern edge of a garden and is intended as a tranquil location for sharing tea. The design harmonizes with its surroundings by reflecting off a small, dark lake and blending in with a nearby pine forest. The teahouse's exterior is clad in charred larch, a wood preservation technique that gives the structure its striking black color and enables it to become a natural part of the environment. The structure features a green roof covered in local grasses, which further integrates the building into the landscape. Sliding doors allow inhabitants to alter the space's openness and privacy, framing specific views of the lake and forest. When the doors are closed, a gilded oculus fills the interior with sunlight and creates a unique play of light and shadow. The interior is crowned with a conical soffit crafted from woven sisal ropes, a geometric element that provides a rich texture. Japanese-inspired elements: A central hearth acts as the focal point for preparing tea, while rounded, clay-plastered walls contain three bamboo vases, reminiscent of a Japanese tokonoma for displaying flowers or calligraphy. The teahouse extends out over the water via a large veranda made of larch planks. The design emphasizes a quiet, ceremonial gathering experience, following Japanese teahouse traditions of minimalist space and appreciation for nature. The use of sustainable and locally sourced materials, such as the charred larch and pond stones, helps minimize the project's environmental impact. Construction details Architects: Lenka Křemenová and David Maštálka. Carpenter: Vojtěch Bilišič. Materials: Oak beams form the frame, which stands on stones sourced from a nearby pond. Project location: Česká Lípa, Czech Republic. Completion date: The project was completed in 2011. Awards: The Black Teahouse received the 2012 Czech National Architectural Award.