Forest, river and architecture in harmony with nature - this is how the Forest House project by JMW Architects can be described. This modern 600 sq. m. summer house was built in a unique location on an escarpment overlooking the river flowing below. The well-thought-out composition of three volumes - stone, glass and wood - fits perfectly into the surrounding landscape, offering a space for relaxation all year round.
Architecture inscribed in nature
Forest House is a response to the needs of modern man - tired of the city, seeking silence, contact with nature and inner peace. Thanks to thoughtful architecture and sensitivity to the context of the place, the house not only impresses with its form, but also offers a unique experience of being "here and now", away from the rush of everyday life. JMW Architekci architects designed a summer house that harmoniously combines modern form with natural surroundings. The forest and the water became the inspiration for a block that does not dominate the landscape, but coexists with it, changing with the seasons. The project was created with the idea of creating a place completely cut off from the hustle and bustle of the city, but at the same time inscribed in the picturesque natural landscape. The house was situated on an extremely picturesque plot - surrounded by trees, on an escarpment with a view of the river meandering below. It was this landscape that shaped both the architecture and function of the building. The main glazing and openings of the house face nature, opening the interior to the most spectacular views. The building does not dominate the surroundings, but coherently interacts with them. Natural materials - wood, stone, glass - further enhance the impression of symbiosis with the green surroundings.
The Forest House project was created by JMW Architekci studio.
Photo by Piotr Krajewski
Three blocks - three functions
Forest House consists of three interpenetrating blocks, differentiated by material, character and function. Each of them was designed to respond to specific functional needs and at the same time to fit into the natural context of the plot. The composition of the forms results from the terrain, exposure to sunlight and the desire for maximum openness to the surrounding landscape. The three blocks form a coherent whole, in which each plays a specific role in terms of space and aesthetics.
Heavy stone block - privacy and protection
The most massive element of the composition is the stone block located on the north side. Its solid, closed form serves a protective function - both in a physical and symbolic sense. A small number of window openings limits the view into the interior and isolates the house from neighboring buildings, creating an intimate, safe space. The natural stone used on the facade reinforces the impression of permanence and tranquility, while alluding to the surrounding nature. This part of the house acts as a backdrop, allowing the other lighter and more expressive elements to ring out to their full potential.
The stone block isolates the house from neighboring buildings, creating an intimate space
© JMW Architects
Light glazed block - light and openness
On the east and south sides, we can admire the light, largely glazed block, which counterbalances the heavy northern wing. It is here that the house opens up to the garden, the light and the view of the river flowing below. Large expanses of glazing blur the boundary between inside and outside, allowing users to be in close contact with nature at any time of the day or year. Delicate partitions and curtains protect the interior from excessive sunlight, but do not take away from the feeling of spaciousness. This part of the house has daytime functions and is the heart of daily life.
Levitating wooden block - lightness and elegance
Above the two lower blocks floats the third - a dynamic wooden form, which visually "levitates" over the whole, closing the architectural composition and defining its most characteristic element. This part houses the private rooms, which offer a spectacular view of the river and the forest. The horizontal layout of the facade, the use of natural materials and the presence of a pergola with sail-like shades give this part of the building a recreational, almost waterfront character. It is here that the spirit of the summer house is felt most strongly - light, open, created for the pleasure of being in nature.
The house consists of three interpenetrating blocks of varied form and function
© JMW Architects
A summer oasis all year round
Forest House is not only an aesthetic form and a comfortable space for relaxation. It's also environmentally conscious architecture. With a sustainable design approach in mind, the building incorporates photovoltaic panels to produce energy from renewable sources. These are complemented by state-of-the-art temperature management systems that ensure efficient heating and cooling of rooms depending on the season and current weather conditions. As a result, the house operates in an energy-optimized manner, which translates into a lower carbon footprint and reduced environmental impact. The design has thus been thought out in such a way as to minimize the need to interfere with the landscape - both at the construction stage and in later use.
Large areas of glazing blur the boundary between inside and outside
© JMW Architects
The interiors of the house are bright, spacious and open to the greenery. As a result, they encourage people to relax and stop for a while. Floor-to-ceiling glazing provides natural light throughout the day, while allowing constant contact with the surrounding nature. The rhythm of the day here is determined by sunlight, which filters through the interiors and emphasizes their minimalist but warm character. In summer, the interiors merge with the terraces and garden, creating one cohesive living area. In winter, on the other hand, the house becomes a cozy refuge - thanks to the panoramic glazing, the view outside the window turns into a vivid picture that constantly tells the story of the changing nature.
Are you building a house? We have more tips for you!
Compiled by:KATARZYNA SZOSTAK
