In central Ukraine, the “Under the Reed Roof Guesthouses” by YOD Group offer a fresh interpretation of the traditional Ukrainian hata-mazanka. These 50-square-meter residences artfully blend heritage with modernity, featuring expansive glass facades that replace the customary whitewashed walls. This design choice transforms the thatched roof into a dominant and sculptural architectural feature, creating a distinctive aesthetic that is both innovative and deeply rooted in local culture.
The guesthouses embody a philosophy of design rooted in terroir, focusing on revealing the fundamental character of a location and deciphering its cultural symbolism. Unlike simple preservation, this approach reinterprets the traditional mazanka as a dynamic system of upkeep, renewal, and profound connection to the climate and landscape. The exaggerated scale of the reed roof serves as both a protective canopy and a powerful emblem, evoking images of an ornate ceremonial headpiece or a natural form emerging from the earth. The interiors are arranged around a central concrete core housing the bathroom, with living and sleeping areas flowing seamlessly around it. A minimalist fireplace offers a subtle nod to traditional Ukrainian stoves, deliberately eschewing nostalgia and encouraging a contemplative engagement with the surrounding nature. Natural tones, textured finishes, and curated Ukrainian-made items define the eco-minimalist aesthetic, while the soaring, wood-tiled roof dome introduces a sense of grandeur within a compact space. Advanced heating, cooling, and ventilation systems are discreetly integrated to preserve the clean lines and visual harmony of the design.
Throughout the design, transparency plays a pivotal role, allowing abundant natural light to flood the interiors and making the roof appear to float above the landscape. This openness cultivates a constant dialogue with the surroundings, enhanced by a continuous stone-carpet floor that extends from inside to outside, inviting residents to experience nature firsthand. For moments requiring privacy, subtle, automated curtains can be deployed, maintaining the serene atmosphere. The project underscores the importance of a thoughtful interplay between modern architectural practices and the enduring legacy of local building traditions. By embracing and evolving ancestral wisdom, YOD Group has crafted a sanctuary that respects its heritage while offering a contemporary, immersive experience, inviting a deeper connection with both culture and nature.