An impressive house designed by the Exterio Architektura studio has been built on the outskirts of Warsaw. The design resembles an American East Coast mansion or a British country house somewhere on the outskirts of a town. Behind the classic façade lies a functional and elegant home for a large family. Its standout features include a floor area of nearly 700 square metres, hand-moulded brickwork on the façade and a 7-metre-high living room.
Exterio Architektura’s ‘Classical Residence’ draws inspiration from British country houses and the American East Coast. The influences are evident in the brick houses of New England and the mansions of the Hamptons. However, the architects did not copy any specific model. Instead, they focused on proportions, symmetry, the rhythm of the façade and durable materials, creating a serene form without excessive decoration. This project on the outskirts of Warsaw has an unusual history. Before their own house was completed, the clients rented the neighbouring building, observing the construction work and familiarising themselves with the plot, its sunlight exposure and the day-to-day logistics. This made it easier to adapt the interiors to the family’s rhythm of life. This was particularly important for a residence with a floor area of nearly 700 square metres.
The house’s showpiece is its façade, which is clad in hand-formed ceramic tiles resembling brick. The irregular texture of the finish adds depth and a sense of lightness to the large structure. The central entrance to the residence is accentuated by a tall portal with double doors – a feature commonly found in stately homes in America or the UK. The composition is complemented by aluminium windows with slim frames. The large glazed areas flood the interiors with light and open them up to the beautiful garden. Here, classic form meets contemporary detail, whilst the overall effect is created by the proportions, the quality of the materials and the appropriate scale of the individual elements.
The generous floor area has been divided to suit the residents’ everyday needs. The heart and centre of the home is the living area, featuring a 7-metre-high living room. This space serves the family’s daily needs whilst also accommodating larger gatherings and celebrations. It is worth mentioning the terraces integrated into the building’s structure. These sheltered spaces allow the garden to be enjoyed in complete privacy. A playroom, a playground and hammocks have been provided for the children. The garden is therefore a practical part of the property, rather than merely a decorative setting for the house.
This American-style residence, designed by Exterio Architektura, is in fact much more than just a standard set of living spaces. The house features a private wellness area with saunas. Another interesting feature is the goods lift leading from the underground garage to the living area. This unusual amenity makes it easier to transport shopping, deliveries and items needed for larger gatherings. Behind the classic façade lies an extensive technical infrastructure. The building is equipped with a heat recovery ventilation system, a ground-source heat pump, air conditioning and modern installations. Energy security is ensured by a generator with a backup power supply. The technical systems remain almost invisible, ensuring year-round living comfort.
The Classic Residence was designed for a family requiring ample space without compromising on an intimate lifestyle. Classic proportions and a brick façade give it a timeless appearance, whilst modern systems, glazing, a wellness area and a goods lift are features that make daily life easier and more enjoyable for the household. The luxury of this residence lies not only in its floor area, but also in its privacy, comfort, durable materials and freedom of use.
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About the practice:
Behind the project are Marcin Klukowski and Janusz Drąg from the Warsaw-based practice Exterio Architektura, which has been operating for over a decade. The practice undertakes projects on various scales, ranging from urban planning and buildings to small-scale architecture. Private homes and residences hold a special place in its portfolio. The practice has over 100 projects to its name and has completed several dozen projects across Poland. The team guides clients through the successive stages of a project, from identifying needs and preparing the design to dealing with formalities and providing support during construction.
Design: Exterio Architektura – Marcin Klukowski, Janusz Drąg
Interiors: Hola Design
Photography: Yassen Hristov
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