A Cabin Made of Hempcrete Rises in a Remote Corner of the Czech Republic

Designed by Atelier Lina Bellovicova, House LO marks the country’s first residential project to use hempcrete, a sustainable and fire-and-mold-resistant material.

Text by

Kathryn M.

View 10 Photos

When award-winning architect Lina Bellovicova was tapped to create an eco-friendly cabin in a secluded part of the Czech Republic, her client had an unusual request for the building material—hempcrete. "This was a great yet fascinating challenge for me, as hempcrete had never been used for this context in the Czech Republic," says Bellovicova.

A Cabin Made of Hempcrete Rises in a Remote Corner of the Czech Republic - Photo 1 of 10 -

A sustainable building solution, hempcrete comes with many benefits. As the architect notes, "it has great insulating features, is recyclable, and is also resistant to pests, fire, and molds." Additionally, it continues to petrify over time, while also drawing carbon dioxide from the air during the process.

A Cabin Made of Hempcrete Rises in a Remote Corner of the Czech Republic - Photo 2 of 10 -

While Bellovicova’s client had a distinct vision for the cabin’s form, he allowed the architect flexibility with its layout—so long as the home presented an intimate connection to its natural setting.

House LO, as it’s known, features large sliding windows on either side of the home to cater to seamless indoor/outdoor living, all while framing sweeping views. The layout comprises two bedrooms, a bath, and an open kitchen, living, and dining area.

A Cabin Made of Hempcrete Rises in a Remote Corner of the Czech Republic - Photo 3 of 10 -

A Cabin Made of Hempcrete Rises in a Remote Corner of the Czech Republic - Photo 4 of 10 -

"The layout of the house is designed to use its space to the fullest," notes the architect. Per the client’s request, the home also has a photo chamber—designed as part of the cellar—along with a clubroom and storage. A large wraparound terrace, covered by the roof overhang, further promotes the home’s intimate connection to its remote, mountainous surroundings.

"The roof is covered with a green carpet so that the house merges with nature and is well insulated," continues the architect. "Gradually, the space and its natural setting will become one."

Shop the Look

Maxim Lighting Dianne Mini Pendant

Lumens

A familiar theme with a fresh feel. The Dianne Mini Pendant by Maxim Lighting has a way of fitting in with contemporary or traditional décor. Its pear-shaped shade of clear glass suffuses brightness and is perfect for showcasing a vintage-inspired lightbulb (not included).

Shop

Eames Wire Chair

Herman Miller

In 1951, following the success of their molded plastic and plywood chairs, Charles and Ray Eames challenged themselves to design a reasonably priced, quality chair that was light yet strong. Their solution - the Eames Wire Chair - featured a sculpted look, comfort, and practicality.

Shop

Case Kigumi Table

Design Within Reach

Named for a traditional Japanese joinery technique in which masterfully created interlocking wooden joints are used to form bonds, the understated Kigumi Table (2020) reflects Nazanin Kamali’s conviction that a casual dining table needs to be simple, have a small footprint, and be suitable for...

Shop