Skylight Hut by Atelier Hajný: Innovative Residential Retreat in Kamenice, Czechia

A Modern Retreat Amidst Nature

The Skylight Hut by Atelier Hajný is a contemporary residential project designed as a peaceful retreat near Prague. Nestled within a serene garden and surrounded by mature trees, this architectural gem transforms a modest 1970s one-story hut into a sophisticated, functional escape. The original structure featured a low-pitched roof, a basement, and limited living space, which no longer met the owners’ needs.

The married couple who purchased the property envisioned a city escape that could serve both weekend relaxation and remote work. While captivated by the location, they faced a significant challenge: the existing building was in poor technical condition, and local zoning laws restricted new construction. A maximum height of 7.7 meters limited vertical expansion. The solution was a complete renovation and extension, carefully designed to meet both spatial needs and regulatory requirements.

Architectural Design: Truncated Hip Roof and Minimalist Exterior

Architect Martin Hajný embraced the challenge, creating a striking truncated hip roof that balances functionality and aesthetics. The unique roof minimizes building height, preserving neighbors’ sightlines while giving the hut its iconic tent-like form.

The renovation retained the stone base of the original hut, serving as a sturdy foundation for the new metal structure. The main construction features a two-by-four frame system with a diffusely open structure, anchored on reinforced concrete pillars concealed behind stone walls. Trapezoidal metal sheeting clads the roof and facade, offering a durable, low-maintenance exterior reminiscent of traditional wooden battens while blending seamlessly into the natural surroundings.

The hut’s dark exterior harmonizes with the environment, ensuring that it complements rather than dominates the landscape.

Interior Design: Warm Wood, Natural Light, and Functional Spaces

Inside, the Skylight Hut contrasts its dark exterior with a bright, warm interior, evoking the charm of a classic cabin. Pine plywood with a pronounced grain covers the ceiling, walls, and furniture, creating a cohesive and inviting aesthetic. The wood also reflects light, enhancing the airy, open feel of the space.

The bathroom introduces subtle grey plaster, offering a sleek, minimalist contrast to the predominantly wooden interiors. Large south- and east-facing windows on the ground floor provide expansive views of the surrounding greenery, creating a strong connection with nature.

To maintain the roof’s external simplicity, the bedroom relies on skylights for illumination, introducing a meditative ambiance while enabling natural ventilation. These skylights, paired with the generous roof overhang over the southern facade, ensure a comfortable indoor climate throughout the year.

Sustainability, Comfort, and Functionality

The Skylight Hut exemplifies modern sustainable architecture, balancing minimal environmental impact with aesthetic elegance. The metal facade and roof offer durability and low maintenance, while the wooden interior promotes natural insulation and a healthy indoor atmosphere. Thoughtful orientation of windows maximizes natural light and cross-ventilation, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and climate control.

All photographs are works of  Radek Úlehla