In the serene valley of Blanice River, in Pošumaví, stands a former blacksmith shop with a barn, surrounded by untouched pastures and the ruins of a former mill and sawmill. With no immediate neighbors, the area is a picture of stillness and tranquility. However, the interior space of the barn was stacked all the way to the ridge, making it dark and uninviting. Our task was to open up and illuminate the space with minimal interventions.
To achieve this, we removed the unfinished belt dormer that was installed in the 1990s and replaced it with lighting roof tiles. These new tiles allow changing light to penetrate the barn throughout the day, creating an inviting and comfortable space. The interventions were made with maximum respect for sustainability and local resources, as requested by the clients.
We were determined to use materials that were available on-site whenever possible. This decision helped us to minimize waste and reduce the carbon footprint of the project. However, due to the outbreak of COVID-19, the reconstruction was mostly done with self-help. This not only helped us to stay within the client’s budget, but it also created a sense of community and cooperation.
The reconstruction of the former blacksmith shop and barn is an excellent example of how sustainable building practices can be integrated with traditional architecture. The new lighting roof tiles provide a modern touch to the building, while the use of local resources and self-help techniques ensure that the project is environmentally conscious and socially responsible.
The reconstruction of the former blacksmith shop and barn in Pošumaví is a testament to the power of sustainable building practices. By using available resources, respecting the environment, and engaging with the community, we were able to create a comfortable and inviting space while preserving the traditional architecture of the area. This project is a beacon of hope for those who believe that sustainable building practices are the way forward.
