Stone pigsty in Czech Republic transformed into holiday home by Lenka Milerová Architektka
The local studio converted a former pigsty into a minimalist summer house using raw materials.
1The story behind the project
Lenka Milerová Architektka transformed an old stone pigsty near the village of Panoší Újezd in the Czech Republic into a holiday home. The owner had a long-standing personal connection to the site, ruling out demolition and reconstruction. The architectural team preserved the existing stone and brick structure, adding industrial elements like steel and concrete. This transformation aimed to maintain the raw and simple character of the space while highlighting its original atmosphere.
2Architectural approach and material choice
Architect Lenka Milerová adopted a 'raw, industrial' language for the project. The existing stone walls were cleaned and left exposed, while brick sections were coated with textured cement spray. New additions used concrete and steel. Milerová stated, 'The architectural approach focused on exposing structural materials and using the most basic construction techniques.' Concrete became the primary material for details, harmonizing with the space's character.
3Spatial reorganization
The pigsty's single room was expanded by adding two steel-framed openings: a glass pivot door providing garden access and a large, deep-set window framing a view of the main house. A small bathroom was carved into the terrain's slope, separated from the living area by a sliding wooden door. The bathroom interior featured board-marked concrete walls and was illuminated by a skylight and window.
4Interior details
Inside, a low concrete podium was added around the perimeter, creating space for a daybed under the living area window and extending to support a bathtub in the bathroom. The only fixed element was a small concrete counter with a sink in one corner. This minimalist approach ensured the space remained flexible and uncluttered.
5Outdoor arrangements
A small outdoor kitchen was created beside the building, overlooking a patio accessible via a paved path from the entrance. This addition enhanced the holiday home's outdoor usability. The design seamlessly connected indoor and outdoor spaces, blending with the natural surroundings.
6Comparison with similar projects
This project shares similarities with Madeleine Architects' conversion of a pigsty into an office in Switzerland using lime and hemp. In the Czech Republic, BekArch transformed a disused bakery into a skylit apartment. Lenka Milerová Architektka's work stands out for preserving the existing structure while introducing new functions.
7The philosophy behind the architecture
Architect Lenka Milerová said, 'The result is not ostentatious architecture. On the contrary, the roughness, imperfection, and simplicity connect with the atmosphere of the place and highlight what has been here from the beginning.' This approach maintained the site's authentic character while meeting modern needs. Concrete additions contrasted with the old structure, emphasizing its historical texture.
8The project's significance and impact
Panoší Újezd Summer House showcases the aesthetic potential of industrial materials. It inspires the repurposing of abandoned structures through thoughtful transformation. Lenka Milerová Architektka's work serves as an important reference for sustainable architecture and material simplicity, demonstrating how raw elements can create harmonious living spaces.