Iconic fireplace as a dominant feature of contemporary mountain architecture

The concept of the house is based on a modular system of four separate blocks arranged into pairs, creating two objects. This principle allowed for flexible space utilization, clear functional divisions, and a sensitive integration of the building into the landscape. The result is a modern mountain wooden structure with an emphasis on the purity of detail, exposed construction, and maximum visual contact with the surrounding scenery of the Low Tatras.

However, a fundamental role in this realization was not played solely by the architecture itself, but also by one specific element that significantly influenced its character – namely the iconic Focus fireplace.

Part of the Architectural Concept

One of the main requirements of the investor was to create a fireplace that would not be just an accessory, but would become a natural center of the house. The final selection was the Domofocus model - a hanging variant that is an icon of contemporary design.

In the context of an open living space with a high ceiling and exposed wooden elements, this fireplace serves multiple roles simultaneously.
Primarily, it functions as a solitary object that defines the main living zone without disrupting the visual continuity of the space. Thanks to its suspended construction, the interior feels airy and open, which is crucial in the case of panoramic views of the landscape. The fireplace's ability to rotate also allows for orienting the fire in any direction according to the current use of the space, so the fireplace naturally responds to life within the house.

"With hanging fireplaces from Focus, it is absolutely essential that they are resolved in the study phase. It’s not just about design, but about a comprehensive technical solution – statics, anchoring, and coordination with the construction of the house. If the heater is correctly designed from the very beginning, it will reliably fulfill its function and naturally blend into the space as an integral part," says Oldřich Grepl from Metax Krby, the company that ensured the realization.

The ability to rotate the firebox allows for orienting the fire in any direction according to the current use of the space.

Technical Solution in the Wooden Structure The realization of the fireplace in a building with a wooden ceiling structure presented a number of technical challenges. The hanging model required precise static solutions and reliable suspensions that would not transfer loads to unsuitable parts of the structure.

"It was key to design an individual anchoring system while ensuring safe guidance of the flue through the wooden structures. We had to pay increased attention especially to the ceiling penetrations and compliance with all fire safety requirements, including clearance distances from combustible materials," adds Oldřich Grepl.

An important role was also played by the coordination of the various professions during the design phase. This allowed for the preparation of supporting elements, chimney body, and ceiling construction so that the assembly could proceed without the need for additional interventions.

The project in Jasná demonstrates that even in structurally demanding wooden constructions, it is possible to safely and functionally integrate such technically specific fireplace solutions through proper design and coordination.

Photo: BoysPlayNice
Text Alena Křečková