In central Ukraine, YOD Group has completed Under The Reed Roof Guesthouses, a hospitality project shaped by material choice. The design combines a renewable reed roof, timber detailing, full-height glazing and low-energy climate systems. As a result, the project offers a contemporary interpretation of the traditional Ukrainian hata-mazanka.

Rather than copying historic forms, the architects focused on core material principles. They reinterpreted thatch, plaster and wood in a transparent and minimalist structure. In doing so, they created guesthouses that connect vernacular building traditions with modern hospitality design.

Reed Roof As Architectural Statement

Traditional mazanka houses feature whitewashed walls and thatched roofs made from local resources. YOD Group translated these elements into oversized reed roofs.

The sculptural roof recalls both a tall traditional hat and a mushroom rising from the landscape. At the same time, it highlights reed as a biobased material with natural insulating qualities. Because reed grows locally and regenerates quickly, it supports a low-impact and place-based construction approach.

Glass And Stone Create Spatial Continuity

The layout revolves around a compact concrete core that contains the bathroom. On either side, the architects placed the bedroom and living area. This clear organisation keeps the footprint efficient while opening the interior towards the landscape.

Full-height glazing removes visual barriers between inside and outside. Consequently, the roof appears to float above the terrain. A continuous stone-carpet floor runs from the interior to the exterior terrace. This finish strengthens spatial continuity and adds a tactile surface underfoot.

Meanwhile, a minimalist fireplace refers to the traditional Ukrainian stove. Instead of installing a television, the designers chose to focus attention on fire, light and views. When guests require privacy, automated curtains close without disturbing the clean aesthetic.

Eco-Minimalism With Local Craft

The interior follows the principles of eco-minimalism. A restrained natural colour palette sets a calm tone. In addition, tactile materials create sensory depth.

The space includes furniture by Ukrainian brand Noom, black clay objects by Guculiya and textured wooden elements throughout. A custom-made floor lamp crafted from ceramics and natural fibres acts as a sculptural feature. Together, these elements reinforce the emphasis on local production and biobased materials.

Integrated Climate Systems Within Timber Structure

Inside the 10-metre-high dome, wooden tiles line the roof structure. These reference traditional shingles while concealing technical systems. Therefore, the walls remain visually clean and uninterrupted.

A heat pump maintains a comfortable indoor climate throughout the year. In addition, integrated ventilation and concealed air-conditioning operate through subtle linear openings. By embedding engineering within the architecture, the project combines renewable materials with contemporary building performance.

Under The Reed Roof Guesthouses demonstrates how reed, timber and locally sourced materials can shape sustainable hospitality architecture. Ultimately, the project shows how material innovation and vernacular knowledge can work together in contemporary design.

Source: YOD Group via v2com
Photography: Mykhailo Lukashuk