Two-generation living in a shared garden
How do you design a home for two generations so they can stay close to one another while keeping their own privacy? This was the question at the very beginning of the architectural study for a family house in Kbely, Prague. The result is a design that combines a shared family base with the option of independent, comfortable living for every member of the family.
The owners were looking for a solution that would allow a young family and their parents to live together on a single plot without compromising their mutual autonomy. Key themes were private outdoor spaces, a connection to the garden, plenty of light, barrier-free access, and the ability to adapt the layout over the years. The brief also called for a large family table, a study, storage, and direct contact with nature. The study works with one simple idea: to create two separate dwelling units that function independently, yet together form a single architectural whole. The existing house is extended by a new two-storey addition for the young family. Beside it stands a new single-storey building with its own facilities for the older generation. The two houses are joined by a light roofed link, which allows easy movement between the individual parts while visually unifying the entire composition. Thanks to this arrangement, the residents can share everyday life whenever they wish, while still keeping enough privacy in their own home.
Client's comment:
"A pleasant collaboration and a result that matches what we had in mind."
The main goal of the study was to create airy, naturally lit living spaces. This is reflected in generous glazing oriented towards the garden, open living areas, and a direct connection between the interior and the outdoor terraces. The architecture works with simple cubic volumes, horizontal lines, and a restrained palette of materials. White façades are complemented by natural materials, slender railings, and large glazed surfaces that strengthen the contact with the garden and the surrounding greenery. The inspiration came from contemporary minimalist family houses built on clean proportions, natural light, and simplicity. An important part of the design is the work with the garden. Each dwelling unit has its own outdoor space, while the whole garden can also be shared. The terraces lead directly off the living areas, and their thoughtful placement provides plenty of privacy. The design also includes a pool, seating areas, and abundant planting, which helps create a pleasant microclimate and naturally separates the individual parts of the plot.
The study responds not only to the family's present needs but also to how those needs will evolve. The layout allows the use of individual spaces to change gradually, taking into account the residents' shifting requirements at different stages of life. The result is a house that offers the closeness of family without having to give up one's own privacy — a place where generations can live side by side, help one another, and still keep their own rhythm of life.
Architects: Michal Rouha, Marie Delongová, Barbora Jurášová
Location: Praha 19, Kbely
