Uhlik: Forest retreat

Uhlik architekti created in Central Bohemia a hideaway in the countryside as a compact enclosed volume – an object resting freely on the ground with a stern raised on a huge boulder.

Uhlik architekti designed a compact enclosed volume made of charred wood that contains one interconnected space with the dimensions of 3.1m x 5.8 m.

In the entering part is a flat platform with headroom just for a standing person; this part is opened by a large glassed-in surface offering the view. The remaining part of the object rises gradually towards another opening, facing the tree crowns. And there is a unique place for resting. Each step can be used as sleeping place. Under them, there is storage space; turning one of the benches over creates another double bed. Multifunctional space is suitable not only for dwelling but also small events, performances or just meditation. Both glassed-in openings can be closed by big shutters, the bigger one by a pulley and a hand winch.

The basic supporting framework of the forest retreat is a joist construction which emerged from the cooperation with local carpenters. The outside is covered with charred boards with rabbet joints. The wood for boards and joists was taken from fallen trees from the owner’s land. The inside of the construction is coated with OSB boards in order to reinforce it and also with respect to the low price. The roof is covered by two layers of asphalt belts.

The building was assembled during a few extended weekends between the autumn 2012 and the spring 2013.