House Over the Stone Cores sits on a steep plot on the island of Mali Iž, a cascading family house with a garage and swimming pool. Indeed, the project responds to the pronounced topography and magnificent views of the Zadar archipelago, so the architecture is not imposed above the landscape but carved into it, adapting and “anchoring” itself within the terrain.

Four Levels That Follow the Slope

The house unfolds across four cascading levels that follow the natural slope. Each level keeps direct contact with the ground and opens toward the sea, which maximises panoramic views while it preserves privacy.

Three Stone Cores That Structure the Interior

Access to the house and garage comes from the north, via a carefully shaped plateau, while the residential units extend toward the sea on the northern side. From the north façade of the ground floor of the first unit, three stone cores rise, structuring the interior and creating spatial intimacy, while living and sleeping areas flow freely between them. The ground floor terrace leads to the pool, carefully integrated into the terrain, which emphasises its clean and simple form.

An Intimate Courtyard on the Upper Level

The second residential unit sits on the upper level, shifted relative to the lower one. At the rear, an intimate southern courtyard takes shape, designed as a private space for relaxation and gathering. The north façade opens fully to the sea and is framed by the stone cores, which creates a sense of privacy and shields the interior from neighbouring views. Terraces and the courtyard extend the summer living spaces, so they maintain a continuous dialogue between interior and exterior.

A Minimalist Volume Above the Cores

Above the stone cores, a simple, slightly recessed minimalist volume houses the sleeping area. Its lighter materiality and rustic plaster contrast with the massiveness of the stone, which emphasises the hierarchy of elements. Wooden beams between the cores form shaded pergolas that filter light and further enhance the Mediterranean character of the house.

A Meditative Dialogue With the Landscape

The material palette relies on natural, tactile elements such as stone, wood, plaster, and polished concrete, combining a rational spatial organisation with a strong ambient experience. In this way, the architecture respects the topography, accentuates the horizon, and creates a meditative living environment in close proximity to the sea.