Start Slideshow
Zen Houses by Petr StolinIf you've ever dreamed of shortening your commute to mere steps, take a look at this brilliant project in the Czech Republic. <a href="http://www.stolin58.com/" target="_blank">Petr Stolin</a> was commissioned to design two identical buildings using structural insulated panels (SIPs) - one for living, and one for working. The corresponding design, called Zen Houses, demonstrates a flair for spatial and material economy without compromising on style. Located in a rural landscape outside Liberec, the double-story cubes, which are just 10 meters wide, are clad in transparent acrylic sheets that reveal simple <a href="http://inhabitat.com/tag/timber" target="_blank">timber framing</a> and surprisingly voluminous interiors.1
Zen Houses by Petr StolinThe twin buildings are located in a rural area outside Liberec, Czech Republic.2
Zen Houses by Petr StolinTransparent acrylic cladding reveals simple timber framing.3
Zen Houses by Petr StolinPetr Stolin says the design is deliberately austere.4
Zen Houses by Petr StolinThe cubes are linked by a simple walkway, which creates a series of public, semi-public and private spaces.5
Zen Houses by Petr StolinA variety of low-cost materials were used in construction to keep the project within a reasonable budget.6
Zen Houses by Petr StolinPlenty of natural lighting reaches the interior thanks to strategic glazing.7
Zen Houses by Petr StolinThe residential interiors are finished in black, while the studio's interiors are finished in white.8
Zen Houses by Petr StolinZen Houses by Petr Stolin9
Zen Houses by Petr StolinZen Houses by Petr Stolin10
Zen Houses by Petr StolinZen Houses by Petr Stolin11
Zen Houses by Petr StolinZen Houses by Petr Stolin12
Zen Houses by Petr StolinZen Houses by Petr Stolin13
Zen Houses by Petr StolinZen Houses by Petr Stolin14
