A striking two-story residential project in Kyiv, Ukraine, showcases how contemporary architecture can seamlessly integrate with natural landscapes. The Forest House, designed by Karlikova Architects and completed in 2023, spans 341 square meters and sits on a site offering panoramic views of forest and water. The project exemplifies open, minimalist architecture that naturally integrates into its surroundings through floor-to-ceiling glazing and three covered terraces that enhance the connection with nature.
The architectural structure is based on a distinctive post-and-beam system known as fachwerk, featuring a visible glulam frame that creates a clear rhythm of columns and beams. This design element visually unites the exterior and interior spaces while the wood tone deliberately echoes the bark of surrounding pine trees. All lines follow a unified scale and direction, creating a harmonious relationship between the built environment and the natural setting.
The construction process involved innovative prefabrication techniques, with the house manufactured by Kager Hiša in Slovenia and assembled on site in just five days. The full implementation was carried out by the company's Ukrainian office, demonstrating international collaboration in architectural execution. Construction began in 2021 but faced significant challenges due to the outbreak of war, with interior work ultimately completed in 2023, reflecting the resilience of the architectural community during difficult times.
The house's layout maximizes the panoramic views by stretching along the façade to capture vistas from every possible angle. Upon entering, visitors are immediately greeted by views of the double-height kitchen, which serves as the central space of the home and is filled with natural air and light. The open-plan design brings together kitchen, dining, and living zones in a cohesive manner, with the kitchen island strategically facing the living area to become an active architectural element.
Interior finishes reflect a commitment to high-quality materials and sophisticated design. The kitchen features fronts made of matte glass on aluminum frames, color-matched with recessed plinths, while the countertop consists of a thin porcelain slab by Laminam. The kitchen was produced by Italian brand Arredo3 and implemented in collaboration with its official Ukrainian representative, showcasing international design partnerships.
The minimalist interior palette consists of soft greys, natural wood, and mid-century accents that create a calm and sophisticated atmosphere. The living area features the iconic suspended Gyrofocus fireplace, which adds vertical emphasis and serves as a sculptural focal point. The ground floor includes practical spaces such as an entrance zone, technical area with laundry facilities, storage rooms, sauna, guest bathroom, and a private study.
The upper level houses the master suite complete with bathroom, walk-in closet, and terrace overlooking the water, along with two children's bedrooms and a shared bathroom. A carefully designed staircase with massive wooden treads and glass railings functions as a light vertical connector between the two levels, maintaining visual transparency throughout the structure.
The project demonstrates how contemporary architecture can respond to both natural settings and challenging circumstances while maintaining design excellence. The interior maintains a calm, restrained palette where every element, from furniture to structural components, follows the same logic of transparency, rhythm, and serenity. This Forest House represents a successful synthesis of modern living requirements with environmental sensitivity, creating a home that truly belongs to its forested setting while providing all the amenities of contemporary life.
