Adobe House in Szandaváralja

Classical Palóc folk architecture was typically paired with a tract-like, longitudinally arranged architecture. This simple, distinctive character is also followed by our proposal, complementing the existing building in the longitudinal direction of the plot.

The poor quality of the recent renovation of the existing building hides the strengths otherwise found in the house. Fortunately, the retaining walls and porch pillars reflecting the original floor plan system have been preserved in good condition under the stacked layers. In addition to the house to be renovated, the plot also has a valuable, guarded tree stand and excellent views, which the project is responsible for both respecting and exploiting.

Reconstruction of the building begins with the restoration of existing but hidden values. The original adobe walls, brick pillars, stone plinth and wooden floor structure are all in good condition. In addition to restoration, a complete replacement of the roof structure and cladding is required in the first phase to preserve the building structures. The new roof can already be made for the expanded floor space, serving as a temporary outdoor covering.

‍

The expansion can continue with the construction of a floor and a staircase serving the attic space. The house is thus temporarily enriched with a covered terrace connected to the level, while the attic can also be used as a summer dormitory. As the third phase of the renovation, it will achieve the final shape of the house by designing the living space and installing the attic.

When renovating the existing structures, we use the typical materials and techniques of Palóc architecture, respecting the beauty of the local architectural traditions.

The additional wall system of the house is a lighter wooden tract. In this way, the use of new construction technology can be avoided, yet a more open, subtly contemporary formulation of the addition is perceptible. The use of natural materials is a link between the two different characters. The technology allows for a small amount of field level intervention, despite the high floor level.