CHAMELEON HOUSE BY PETR HAJEK ARCHITEKTI

A Czech residence that is as variable as its namesake

As changeable as the infamous lizard from which it earns its name, the Chameleon House is located just outside of Prague and was designed by local firm Petr Hajek Architekti.

The house borrows not only the lizard’s name but also the lizard’s shape. Six rooms radiating off of a central space, each room facing a different tree in the garden. The master bedroom has a view of the cherry tree, the guest room faces the silver spruce, while the children have a view of the walnut tree. A different view in each room, framed by a picture window that offers a new perspective on the surrounding garden.

The unique shape creates two distinct spaces. The interior facing outwards, incorporating itself into the exterior, but also the garden that creeps silently into the blind space between the picture windows – a blurring of boundaries that is subtle, but distinct.

Even the facade draws inspiration from the chameleon. It is made from a semi-gloss coating that reflects the changing colors of the garden and sky – a natural camouflage that helps it blend into its natural surroundings.