Sustainable and efficient
To see a positive shift in climate change requires a spirit of innovation, inventiveness, and a sense of responsibility. “Turning old into new” is the answer from the Czech architectural office Labor 13, which has built a house from 100% recycled materials.
On historical grounds
The city of Verneřice is about 65km north of Prague, where the textile industry of the Habsburg monarchy began. In the middle of this beautiful low mountain landscape, a building has been created to meet the requirements of a sustainable example of architecture. Previously, an old barn sat on the site, and its remains were used and integrated into the new building. Stone walls from the old farmhouse frame ensure the house retains its history and is protected from the weather.
Country life at its best
Five large entrances with wooden double doors can be completely opened, allowing an impressive connection between inside and outside, between nature and architecture. At the same time, it opens up a view on the self-catering garden, where the residents plant a wide variety of vegetables. The interior design is modest and simple in accordance to the principle “less is more” – and yet very comfortable and flooded with light.
Sustainable in all ways
The aim was to keep the construction costs as low as possible and to use regional and sustainable materials. In addition, photovoltaic systems are being used for energy supply, a well for fresh water and an environmentally friendly sewage plant for cleaning wastewater. As a result, the recycled house is almost emission-free and, thanks to the use of old and recycled materials, exceedingly sustainable. The architectural office Labor 13 created this house not only as a residential building, but also as an experimental space for the development of future carbon-neutral buildings with carbon-neutral products used as part of the construction.
The large double wooden doors can be opened completely. © Labor 13
By opening the entrances, the inside and outside are impressively connected. © Labor 13
© Labor 13
The walls of an old farmhouse enclose the new building. © Labor 13
© Labor 13
