The Da House: Pioneering Prefabricated Wooden Architecture

Walenty Durka and Emilia Durka-Zielinska's Modular Masterpiece

The concept of prefabrication in architecture is revolutionized by the vision of Walenty Durka and Emilia Durka-Zielinska, the creative minds behind The Da House. This private residential marvel stands as a beacon of sustainable development, nature protection, and human health. The designers harnessed the potential of wood and recyclable materials, meticulously considering the carbon footprint throughout the life cycle of their modular houses.

What sets The Da House apart is its embodiment of an innovative modular object crafted from certified solid wood construction and interiors. The designers' commitment to ecological materials and passive technology culminates in a mobile house with a foundation just as adaptable. This residence not only exemplifies the ease of prefabricated construction but also captures the essence of aesthetic beauty, forming a holistic architectural approach. Key design determinants include the use of natural, recyclable materials, adherence to ultra-high efficiency standards, water conservation, and a minimized carbon footprint.

Strategically positioned above the ground, The Da House fosters a harmonious dialogue with its natural surroundings rather than dominating them. Durka and Durka-Zielinska have reimagined traditional materials like wood for modern applications, offering customers the benefits of full prefabrication and price control. This architectural philosophy represents a fresh perspective on living in sync with nature for contemporary times.

The construction of The Da House utilizes a Solid Wood Module system, an innovative method involving wood frame-cages and 3-PLY wood panels. Prefabricated in the Dom Architektow manufacture, the house is transported in modules to the site, exemplifying energy efficiency and passive technology. The dimensions of these wooden cages are optimized for transport and production, ensuring minimal waste and the ability to reach any location on the continent.

The Da House's modular nature allows for personalization through the addition or rearrangement of modules. Its design enables expansion over time, interior reconfiguration, and even relocation with its foundations. The southern glass wall seamlessly integrates the interior with the exterior, inviting nature in and promoting a lifestyle that respects and protects the environment.

From its inception in 2016 to completion in 2017 within the Brodnica Landscape Park in Poland, The Da House is the culmination of extensive research and experience in ecological, energy-efficient living. The architects' own zero-energy demand wooden house served as a precursor, with proven solutions translated into the ecological production of The Da House. Overcoming skepticism towards modular architecture, the project now stands as a testament to innovation, durability, and the appeal of sustainable living.

As a Bronze winner of the prestigious A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2024, The Da House is celebrated for its contribution to quality of life improvements and its role in advancing the art, science, design, and technology of architecture. This accolade underscores the project's technical and creative prowess, solidifying its status as a paragon of ecological and holistic architecture.