MILADA COTTAGE || Where Rustic Charm Meets Modern Comfort in Malá Úpa
Situated amidst the tranquil expanse of the Krkonoše Mountains, Milada Cottage stands as a contemporary homage to the region’s architectural heritage.
Perched in the picturesque village of Malá Úpa, with its panoramic view of Sněžka, this newly built retreat by ADR architects balances simplicity and elegance. Drawing inspiration from traditional mountain cottages, its design seamlessly integrates into the landscape, blending the timeless with the functional.
A view of Milada Cottage, overlooking the picturesque village of Malá Úpa and its rolling hills.
Looking out over the snowing village and dense forest beyond.
A Form Shaped by Landscape and Functionality
Milada Cottage embodies a classic rectangular form, thoughtfully embedded into the hillside. The structure features a lower brick volume and an upper floor crowned by a steep gabled roof clad in dark grey corrugated sheet metal. The exterior façade, made of unplaned black-painted wooden boards, creates a striking contrast against the snow-covered terrain while emphasizing durability and sustainability.
The cottage’s layout is equally refined and designed for short-term stays. The lower floor hosts an open-plan living area that merges effortlessly with the dining and kitchen spaces, accentuated by a central concrete pillar. The upper floors are devoted to restful quarters, with bedrooms and cozy nooks for uninterrupted views of the surrounding mountains. A unique sleeping loft crowns the structure, accessible via separate staircases, making it a perfect escape for skiers, who can step directly onto the adjacent slopes.
The living area’s warm wooden tones, central concrete pillar, and wood-burning stove invite guests to sink deep into the armchairs for a cozy evening.
The dining space captures stunning mountain vistas through expansive black-framed windows.
Materiality and Craftsmanship
ADR’s commitment to craftsmanship is evident throughout Milada Cottage. The design employs a harmonious palette of natural materials, focusing on wood, concrete, and aluminum. Inside, bleached spruce wood dominates, from the beamed ceilings to the custom-built furniture, infusing the interiors with warmth and understated luxury. The stainless-steel kitchen introduces a modern edge, complementing the earthy tones of the wooden flooring and concrete accents.
The sauna offers a serene space to relax while enjoying panoramic views of the Krkonoše Mountains.
The exposed concrete, both structural and decorative, lends a rugged charm to the otherwise soft and inviting interiors. Large black aluminum-framed windows frame the vistas, filling the spaces with natural light and connecting the interior with the surrounding wilderness.
A Haven for Year-Round Escapes
Milada Cottage is a retreat and a celebration of the Krkonoše Mountains' unique character. Its thoughtful design enables visitors to experience the region's beauty throughout every season, whether skiing in winter or hiking in summer. The minimalistic yet cozy interiors provide a perfect backdrop for gathering with family and friends, ensuring comfort without distraction.
This project underscores ADR’s expertise in blending local traditions with modern sensibilities. By prioritizing sustainability, craftsmanship, and a deep respect for the environment, Milada Cottage exemplifies timeless, contextually sensitive architecture.
Milada Cottage offers a relaxing escape in nature year round.
PROJECT DETAILS
Studio: ADR
Author:
Aleš Lapka
Petr Kolář
Social media: Facebook | Instagram
Studio address: Libínská 3127/1, 150 00 Prague, Czech Republic
Co-author: Pavel Čermák
Design team: Markéta Tkáčová, Filip Strnad
Project location: Horní Malá Úpa
Project Country: Czech Republic
Project Year: 2019
Completion: 2023
Built-up area: 221 m²
Gross floor area: 362 m²
Usable floor area: 283 m²
Plot size: 976 m²
Client: AFN Real Estate
Photographer: BoysPlayNice
Collaborators and suppliers
Construction project: Studio A91