House in the Orchard: A Masterpiece of Architectural Creativity and Engineering
House in the Orchard, designed by Czech architect Jan Šépka, is located in the suburbs of Prague, Czech Republic. Situated on a northern sloping plot with a beautiful view into the valley, the house is surrounded by six mature trees, earning it the name "House in the Orchard." This house, with its unique form and structure, stands as a remarkable example of the fusion of architectural innovation and structural engineering.
General Features
- Location: The house is situated on a steep slope among six fully grown trees, integrating itself seamlessly into the natural setting.
- Design: The building features an unconventional shape resembling a drop and is supported by a single reinforced concrete column. The view from the living room is directed towards the valley and the Brook Rokytka, while other rooms are oriented to the east and south. A skylight window in the living room provides southern lighting.
Structural and Civil Engineering Analysis
1. Foundation:
- Due to the steep slope, the foundation is minimalized to a single reinforced concrete column, serving as the sole support point for the entire structure. A classical foundation would have been more financially demanding under these conditions.
2. Structural System:
- Wooden Frame: The house is constructed with a wooden frame, reducing the overall weight of the building. The wooden construction was completely prepared in a computer, with beams precisely cut on a 3D milling machine and assembled on site like a construction set.
- Concrete Column: The entire weight of the structure is supported by a reinforced concrete column, which transfers the load to the ground.
- Steel Footbridge: A steel footbridge acts as the entrance to the house and contributes to the structural stability by shaping the bracing of the structure.
3. Engineering Challenges:
- Slope Terrain: The steep slope necessitated a special foundation design to ensure the stability of the structure.
- Load Distribution: The concentration of all structural loads on a single concrete column required precise force analysis to ensure stability against lateral forces such as wind.
4. Materials:
- Concrete: Used for the main column and foundation.
- Wood: Used in the main structure to reduce weight and blend harmoniously with the natural surroundings.
- Polyurethane: Insulates the building, providing a top protective waterproof spray.
Special Features and Design Considerations
- Integration with Nature: The proposed construction of a family house endeavors, through its small size and character, to integrate itself among the existing trees, thus embodying the concept of a “house in an orchard.”
Influence of Garden and Terrain: In addition to the influence of the garden, the orientation and slope of the plot played a significant role in shaping the layout. The ground plan originates from a circular form, which on the south side transitions into two squares housing the bedrooms, kitchen, and bathrooms.
Innovative Construction Methods: The building's irregular shape is divided into planar triangular spaces, ensuring structural stability and allowing the placement of birch plywood boards. The wooden construction is visible in the interior, while the exterior is insulated with polyurethane and protected with a waterproof spray.
House in the Orchard exemplifies the blend of creative design and precise engineering. By using appropriate materials and considering the specific ground conditions, the structure achieves both stability and aesthetic appeal. This house stands as a testament to the harmony between modern architecture and the natural environment, offering stunning views and a unique living experience.