Contemporary Family Living Meets Creative Workspace in Slovakia

The House with Atelier by Monmar ateliér in Trenčín, Slovakia, is a refined example of contemporary residential architecture that seamlessly blends family life with professional practice. Designed by architects Monika Ivanková, Marek Ivanko, and Lukáš Bosák, this 220 m² home redefines the concept of a live-work environment through thoughtful spatial planning and material sensitivity.

Harmonizing Work and Domestic Life

At the heart of the project lies a clear architectural intention: to integrate a functional atelier within a comfortable family home. The design transforms the residence into both a private sanctuary and a professional showroom, allowing clients to experience architecture in a lived-in context. This dual-purpose approach reflects modern lifestyle needs, where flexibility and adaptability are essential.

Contextual Architecture and Form

The house adopts a simple rectangular form topped with a traditional gable roof, echoing the vernacular architecture of the Slovak countryside. Positioned at the edge of a quiet cul-de-sac and surrounded by open fields and meadows, the structure appears organically embedded within its natural setting. The restrained geometry and scale respect the surrounding landscape while maintaining a contemporary architectural identity.

Material Palette and Exterior Expression

A defining feature of the house is its ventilated façade clad in untreated larch wood. This natural material was intentionally selected for its ability to age gracefully, allowing the building to visually merge with its environment over time. Complementing the timber are white plaster surfaces and a gray corrugated metal roof, creating a balanced and timeless aesthetic. The composition reflects a sustainable design approach rooted in natural materials and durability.

Interior Design and Spatial Experience

Inside, the home embraces a minimalist yet warm atmosphere. The combination of exposed wood, white plaster, and subtle black accents creates a cohesive and elegant interior language. The spatial organization is highly functional, with a clear division between private, service, and working zones.

The ground floor features an open-plan living area extending vertically to the roof truss, enhancing spatial volume and natural light. Large glazed openings connect the interior with a covered terrace, strengthening indoor-outdoor continuity. A centrally positioned gallery links the upper and lower levels, reinforcing visual connectivity throughout the home.

Functional Layout and Innovative Features

The atelier is strategically placed near the entrance, ensuring accessibility while maintaining privacy for the family. Bedrooms and service areas are carefully zoned to optimize comfort and usability. A unique feature is the attic space above the children’s room, incorporating a walking net that adds a playful and interactive dimension while maximizing usable area.

This project exemplifies efficient residential design, combining modern architecture, sustainable materials, and flexible living spaces. The House with Atelier stands as a compelling model for integrating workspaces within residential environments without compromising comfort or aesthetics.

All photographs are works of  Matej Hakár