Villa Sidonius Is a Footbridge-Inspired House That Juts Out Over the Hillside

Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Czech Republic’s Central Bohemian Region’s hillsides, Villa Sidonius presents an innovative architectural feat by Stempel & Tesar architekti. The villa stands out in Černošice, a historic area known for its distinctive blend of Art Nouveau, early 20th-century villas, and contemporary architectural experiments. The home challenges conventional building methods, opting instead for a “hanging” bridge-like structure that rises high on one of the steepest plots in the area. This design uniquely engages with the natural environment while optimizing views, functionality, and sustainability.

Modern glass and steel structure suspended above a concrete base, surrounded by trees and a clear sky.

Černošice has long attracted visionary architects, and Villa Sidonius builds on this tradition while charting new territory in both form and function. Elevated on reinforced concrete pillars, the villa’s bridge-like design effectively elevates it above the slope, bringing residents closer to sweeping views of the Berounka Valley, the Bohemian Karst hills, and even Prague’s skyline in the distance. By positioning the structure high on the north-facing slope, the architects could harness the most direct sunlight while creating a seamless connection with the upper garden.

Modern house with a sleek black geometric design, elevated on a hillside above a concrete wall. Trees are planted around the structure.

The villa’s construction is an engineering marvel, utilizing a prefabricated steel framework that combines durability with flexibility. The external load-bearing structure relies on HEB 300 profiles, which provide stability for the building’s long, horizontal form. Inside, IPE 160 profiles serve as a supportive framework for windows, floors, and roof elements, allowing the villa to span an impressive 18 meters (approximately 59 feet) between its reinforced pillars. This choice in materials exemplifies the architects’ focus on creating a low-maintenance structure capable of withstanding the demands of the terrain while integrating seamlessly into the landscape.

Modern glass and steel house on a sloped, rocky terrain with young trees planted nearby.

Modern house exterior with large glass windows, elevated section supported by columns, and surrounding greenery.

Inside, Villa Sidonius embraces the latest in architectural technology, including Swiss-engineered air-lux windows that incorporate patented air-sealing technology to ensure airtight closures even in fluctuating temperatures. The villa’s heating and cooling system employs heat pump technology, creating a comfortable indoor climate that adapts to seasonal variations with minimal environmental impact. Combined, these elements make Villa Sidonius a low-thermal-mass building that balances temperature regulation with energy efficiency – a noteworthy achievement in a structure where large expanses of glass bring nature indoors.

A person in a red shirt stands on the edge of a concrete wall extending from a modern building, with a rocky slope and trees visible below.

Modern glass and steel balcony extends from a concrete building, surrounded by green trees, with a view of a distant town and sky.

Modern glass and steel building on stilts, set in a grassy landscape with trees in the background.

Access to the villa begins in an unexpected way: via an underground tunnel that connects the garage to the main living area. Leading residents to the foot of one of the villa’s towering pillars, the tunnel opens into an elevator, providing a private and practical entryway that is both elegant and efficient. The elevator stops at an intermediate level with access to the home’s service rooms before reaching the primary living spaces.

Modern glass and steel house with a large wooden deck set on a grassy lawn, surrounded by trees under a partly cloudy sky.

Landscape architect Vladimír Sitta collaborated closely with the design team to integrate Villa Sidonius into its natural surroundings. Inspired by the rugged beauty of the Bohemian hillsides, they envisioned a slope covered in slate, softened by clusters of birch trees. This approach lends the landscape a serene, organic quality, contrasting beautifully with the villa’s steel structure and sharp angles. Together, the architectural and landscape design create a harmonious environment that celebrates the region’s natural character while bringing new life to the historic district.

Modern glass and steel house with large windows surrounded by greenery, featuring a rectangular pool and a sloped lawn in the foreground under a clear sky.

A modern, glass-walled building extends over a pool with clear blue water, surrounded by trees and overlooking a scenic view.

Close-up of a dark metal hinge mechanism beside a glass window, reflecting greenery from outside.

Concrete hallway with a ceiling light strip, leading to a glass door showing a tree and outdoor area.

Once on the residential level, the villa’s layout unfolds with a sense of openness and warmth. A central living space features a cozy yet expansive living room, dining area, and kitchen that flow together, inviting residents and guests to move naturally through the home. This main area opens onto a south-facing terrace, which transitions into a lush, vegetated hillside where a swimming pool offers a retreat under the sun. The villa’s unique bridge design allows for additional separation between spaces, with children’s rooms situated on one side and the primary bedroom and bath, complete with views, on the other.

Modern kitchen with black cabinetry, a sleek island with built-in appliances, and a round dining table with matching chairs. Large windows offer a view of greenery outside.

Modern kitchen with black cabinetry and a large round table. Floor-to-ceiling windows showcase a landscape view. A child runs by the window.

Spacious modern living room with a large gray sectional sofa. Open kitchen area in the background, featuring dark cabinetry and a dining table. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer a view of greenery.

Modern interior with large glass windows, light wood flooring, gray curtains, and a view of trees. A gray sofa and armchair are near a kitchen area with dark cabinets.

A modern interior with concrete ceiling, large windows, and minimalistic white walls featuring vertical black handles. The floor is gray with a textured design. Natural light illuminates the space.

Modern bedroom with a large bed, light bedding, and a floor-to-ceiling window offering a view of trees and houses outside.

Freestanding white bathtub in a modern bathroom with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a lush, wooded landscape.

Modern bathroom with a large mirror, floating sink, round bathtub, and a black towel radiator. A glass door opens to a view of greenery outside.

Concrete staircase with a black handrail leading to a closed white door, surrounded by gray walls with a textured middle section.

Modern house surrounded by trees on a sloped, grassy hill under a clear blue sky.

Aerial view of a modern house with a flat roof, adjacent pool, and lush greenery surrounding the property. A road and neighboring buildings are visible on the right.