December 11, 2024

The Suburban House by Z3Z Architekci

The Suburban House, designed by Z3Z Architekci, is located in the suburbs of Warsaw, Poland. Completed in 2017, the property features two cuboidal volumes stacked on top of each other. The lower level is a white block, while the upper level has a wooden exterior.

The house incorporates unique elements such as curvilinear stairs connecting the basement to the upper floor. The design aims to create a comfortable living space amidst a heavily urbanized and varied architectural environment.

A modern two-story home with a wooden exterior, large windows, and an open floor plan.

The Suburban House’s Location and Concept

The Suburban House stands amidst the urban sprawl and diverse architectural styles in the suburbs of Warsaw, Poland. Designed by Z3Z Architekci in 2017, this home distinguishes itself by stacking two cuboidal volumes on top of each other, each finished with different materials: wood for the upper and white for the lower. This dual-block design creates a bold, cohesive look that meets the client’s aesthetic demands despite the chaotic surroundings.

Elegant modern living room with wooden ceiling, minimalist furniture, and large windows.

Arrangement and Functionality of Volumes

The lower block, painted white, is positioned near the northeastern boundary of the plot to leave ample space for a recreational garden on the sunnier southwestern side. This volume houses the daytime functions of the property. Cutting into this white shell reveals a contrasting grey core at strategic locations like the terrace, entrance, and window openings – akin to slicing an apple.

A modern, minimalist kitchen with a wooden ceiling, sleek white cabinets, and a stainless steel range hood.

Adding to this, the wooden upper block was carefully stretched and placed to ensure all bedrooms and living spaces receive abundant natural light. This volume partially overhangs the northeastern side, creating a sheltered area for the entrance and an adjacent parking space.

Modern open-plan kitchen and dining area with wooden ceiling, glass walls, and stairs.

Integration of Open and Recreational Spaces

An essential element of the layout is the terrace cut into the white block, designed to maximize sunlight exposure while preserving privacy through strategic recesses in the facade. Another significant feature is the cut-out in the ground at the southeastern corner, creating floor-to-ceiling windows for the gym in the basement. This design choice allows the corner of the building to appear as if it’s hanging in the air, with glass panes connected only by sealing glue, while pillars hold up the structure.

A modern, open staircase with curved wooden steps and glass railings, accentuated by natural lighting.

Feature Stairs and Materials in the Suburban House

A standout feature is the voluminous, curvilinear staircase that ribbons from the basement to the upper floor, designed to meet the client’s wish for an exceptional and signature staircase. This sculptural element not only separates itself distinctly from the other architectural forms but also harmonizes with the overall cuboidal concept.

A modern, minimalist bathroom with a sleek tub, wooden paneling, and a window offering natural light.

For material consistency, the same type of wood is used throughout the property, including on the stairs, and glass railings are applied both inside and outside, maintaining a clean and seamless look. The designers at Z3Z Architekci focused heavily on maintaining a purity of form and materials throughout the project, emphasizing simplicity and monotone accuracy in each architectural choice.