The transformation of an old stable in a scenic village in the Lubelskie region was envisioned as a haven for leisure, work, and everyday living. The initial idea of the investor was expanded by the discovery of a local limestone reserve and remnants of the original house's foundations. The project, beautifully preserving the historical essence of the site, was prepared by the NOKE Architects studio who meticulously crafted everything from preliminary concepts to the intricacies of the interior design.
Human desire for a profound connection with nature is growing stronger by the day. Even in urban apartments, we usually prefer materials such as wood or stone, and the comforting touch of ceramics, wool, or linen. But when seeking real respite from the clamour of urban conglomerations, it is always best to leave for the countryside. Some find solace in weekend walks through the serene woods, others opt to build homes in tranquil suburbs, and there are those who retreat deep into the wilderness. Michał Małka, the investor of this project, yearned to divide his time between living in Warsaw and a countryside abode in his ancestral homeland, Roztocze.
NOKE Architects studio has had the privilege of designing similar projects in various parts of Poland, always approaching them with a deep appreciation for the natural and cultural landscapes. "Our aim is to create homes that provide residents with a sense of security and privacy while seamlessly integrating them with the surrounding nature," explains architect Piotr Maciaszek, co-founder of NOKE Architects. "Whenever possible, we breathe new life into existing structures and draw inspiration from the rich architectural traditions of each region during the design process." Following this ethos, the designers have embarked on a creative journey, skillfully harnessing the vibrant essence of the local village, Paary.
Setting the stage – an unexpected turn of events
Michał's initial intention was to transform an old stable into a charming rural home. The solid masonry structure with its spacious attic seemed to offer ample room for the homeowner and occasional gatherings with friends. However, a new perspective swiftly emerged. "The inventory of the plot and the surrounding architectural context brought about a truly remarkable twist of events," recalls architect Karol Pasternak, co-owner of NOKE Architects. On the plot, he saw stacks of light-hued Roztocze limestone – a local building material with captivating visual allure. The limestone had been salvaged from the demolition of a former residential house that once stood by the road, concealing the adjacent farm buildings.
The designers at NOKE Architects decided to draw inspiration for their project not so much from the village's past but rather from the ongoing transformations within it. They aimed to blend respect for history with a forward-looking approach, embracing the ideals of sustainable development and environmentally friendly solutions. For these reasons, they chose to primarily reuse the existing building materials found on the site. "We utilized the salvaged limestone, weathered metal, and even wood weathered by the passage of time," says Piotr Maciaszek. This choice imbues the minimalist forms with both character and a sense of warmth.
Reaching the roots
The former stable building, now serving as the core of the house, required extensive renovation work. These efforts encompassed insulating the foundations, replacing the structure and roof cladding, as well as installing new systems and flooring. "Traditional mineral plaster was applied to the walls using conventional methods. The concrete ceiling in the stable area was simply cleaned, while the historic steel beams were painted," emphasizes Karol Pasternak.
Today, the former stable accommodates the living area, while the new stone section serves as the private space. Large window frames give a great view of nature, simultaneously providing a sense of openness and ample natural light. By incorporating natural materials, the minimalist interiors exude an enchantingly cozy and genuinely homely atmosphere.
Organic growth
The cubic form is delicately perched approximately 80 cm above the ground, supported by discreet pillars, giving the impression of it gracefully floating in the air. This section of the building proudly showcases the reclaimed stone blocks, each imbued with its own unique story. The window shutters, wall claddings, and flooring, crafted from weathered oak planks salvaged from a dismantled barn, possess a distinct character that adds to the overall charm.
As a homage to the past, NOKE Architects have artfully exposed the foundations of the old house, transforming them into a picturesque flowerbed adorned with vibrant wildflowers. Similarly, a space for relaxation has been thoughtfully created in the area once occupied by a barn. This rejuvenating haven now houses a sauna, a tranquil plunge pool, and a cozy fireplace. Here, time-honoured traditions merge seamlessly with contemporary comforts, providing indulgence for both warm and chilly days alike.
Expanding horizons
The work of NOKE Architects has resulted in a comfortable and aesthetically appealing house, comprising two harmoniously connected buildings. While the distinction between the old and new elements remains evident, the overall composition seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings. The creators hold the hope that this remarkable structure will not only serve the owner and his close circle but also become a valuable asset to the local community. "Our objective was to showcase the traditional materials of this village, such as mineral plaster, stone, and wood, in a fresh and contemporary manner. We firmly believe that our project will serve as an inspiration for future endeavours in the area, fostering the development of modern construction while honouring age-old traditions," says Piotr Maciaszek. Perhaps such an approach could prove useful beyond the borders of Roztocze as well.
