Under the Top: A Century-Old Residence Gets a Makeover
Under the Top, a posh residence located in Prague, Czech Republic, underwent a complete renovation with a modernist design style by No Architects this year.
This historicizing style villa was originally built over a century ago and was in need of an upgrade to keep up with the times. The renovation included a complete technical modernisation, a change of layout, and the incorporation of the clients’ individual life experiences and inspirations. The interior now features a direct connection between the kitchen and the garden, two additional rooms and a bathroom, as well as air-water heat pump for hot water and heating, as well as underfloor heating for thermal stability and comfort.
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Reviving the Charm of First Republic Villas in Prague
The southern slopes of the first large suburb in the capital city of Prague have always attracted people seeking posh residential living. While modernist architects dreamed of strip windows, flat roofs, and central heating, the historicizing styles of steep roofs, ostentatious stone soffits, and superfluous brick cladding were once the subject of ridicule. However, more than a century later, we understand the desire to build houses in this style to create a sense of rootedness.
Preserving the Legacy of the First Republic
Over a century later, the dream of the original builders is now a reality. Villas that have stood for generations can be modernized with heat pumps, underfloor heating, and sophisticated wiring. Even dangerous radon can be removed by recuperation, and capillary rising damp can be stabilized by grouting. It’s amazing to think that modernist critics of the time would be amazed by the transformation.
Restoring a First Republic Villa to Its Former Glory
Approaching one particular house, however, it was clear that a complete renovation was necessary. But we remained true to the original idea, preserving the garden and the overall look of the house. We cleaned and repainted, unifying asymmetrical patches, and making necessary updates, such as adding underfloor heating and a quiet air-water heat pump to provide hot water for the three bathrooms.
A Modern Space with a Nod to the Past
Not only did we modernize the technical aspects, but we also changed the layout of the house. We extended it to include two more rooms and a bathroom and added a direct connection between the kitchen and garden. Throughout the renovation, we incorporated the clients’ individual life experiences and inspiration from Japan and the UK into the design. As a tribute to the original builders, we added a special door to a child’s fantasy world.
Conclusion
By preserving the charm of First Republic villas and modernizing them for contemporary living, we can create beautiful spaces that respect the past while embracing the future.
Photography by Studio Flusser
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- by Matt Watts
