Architect Kristijan Markoc has released a free, open-source architectural plan for a two-bedroom timber dwelling titled Plana House. The design occupies a 42-square-meter footprint and centers on a pitched-roof structure meant for straightforward assembly using widely available construction materials. Markoc, the founder of the Swiss practice Plana Architecture, aims to provide a path to housing that sidesteps the complexity of typical bespoke projects by returning essential building knowledge to the public.
Accessibility and Design Approach
The initiative grew from a desire to address the high barriers to entry in the housing market. By publishing detailed technical drawings for anyone to access, Markoc hopes individuals can treat the plans as a starting point for their own living spaces. The 42-square-meter layout is compact, emphasizing efficiency over excess. It creates a space that works for individuals or small families while keeping costs low through the use of off-the-shelf components found in local hardware stores.
Markoc describes the intent as a return to older methods of building. In the past, people built houses using shared community knowledge rather than proprietary blueprints. This project aims to replicate that openness. The structure uses a consistent, highly efficient grid developed through Markoc's professional work in modular construction. This grid allows the home to be built with precision while remaining flexible enough to adapt to different regional climates.
Technical Specs and Regulatory Considerations
The structure features a timber frame that can sit on various foundations, including screw piles or traditional concrete pads. This design choice minimizes the impact on the land. Although the design is robust, Markoc is clear about the role of the end-user. Any person intending to build the house must ensure the project complies with local building codes. That requires a review by a licensed architect or qualified professional in the specific region where the house will stand.
The interior layout splits the 42-square-meter floor plan into two distinct functional wings. One end houses an open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area, while the other holds two bedrooms and a bathroom. The use of a pitched roof adds verticality to the interior, making the four-meter-wide rooms feel larger than their floor area suggests. Large windows are included throughout the design to maximize natural light.
Industry Context and Next Steps
Modular and open-source housing designs are gaining ground as designers look for ways to lower costs. Projects like this reflect a broader shift toward sustainable, accessible, and modest living. While the plans provide a clear framework, they are not a finished product ready for assembly without oversight. Markoc plans to build a full-scale prototype soon to test the efficiency of his grid system in real-world conditions.
The project fits into a wider industry trend of architects sharing their work to challenge how housing is delivered. By providing these drawings, the studio invites a conversation about whether the future of home building lies in pre-packaged kits or in empowering individuals with the information to build for themselves. Prospective builders can find the technical files on the Plana Architecture website, provided they are willing to navigate the necessary local permits and safety standards independently.