The plot has a sloped and irregular shape, being the narrowest on the lower slope towards the sea and the widest towards the elevated part. It is located in close proximity to surrounding houses, one of which visually dominates the center of the plot intended for the family house, significantly reducing privacy. From this context arises the idea of a slight rotation of the building in relation to the plot, achieving optimal orientation and greater spatial intimacy.
The existing terrain is characterized by a natural cascading karst landscape with approximately one meter of height difference per level, which served as inspiration for the concept of a ground-floor house articulated in gentle cascades. The project is oriented towards optimal positioning in relation to the attractive panoramic sea views and the layered overlapping of the island landscape, which further justifies the rotation of the volume.
The house is organized across three cascading levels interconnected by stone cores. The cores are positioned on both sides of the central public space; on one side are the service functions, while the private rooms—namely the bedrooms—are located on the other. The central space has an open-plan layout and represents the center of social activity and communication.
By recessing the stone cores, all bedrooms are given equal sea views and direct access to terraces. The removal of traditional corridors further emphasizes the spaciousness of the central zone, while the recessed positioning of the cores discreetly conceals the side entrances to the other rooms.
The highest level connects the kitchen and dining area with an outdoor atrium that includes a summer kitchen. On the central level, the living room is oriented toward the sea and features an integrated concrete seating tribune designed for gathering and relaxation. From the living space, the main circulation continues via stairs to the lowest level of the outdoor terrace covered by a pergola.
At the extension of the spacious terrace, a water reservoir is positioned. Exterior steps in front of the living space are designed as an additional place for sitting and enjoying unobstructed sea views, in the shade and within the spirit of the Mediterranean environment.
In accordance with the location and Mediterranean landscape, the house is shaped using stone, polished concrete with a terrazzo effect in the exterior, machine-applied beige plaster with a rustic expression, and an interior enriched with wooden textures, further emphasizing the authentic island Mediterranean atmosphere.
location:
Rural area Drvenik Mali, Island Drvenik Mali, Croatia
size:
125 sqm house + 20 sqm storages + 25 sqm open summer kitchen
plot:
740 sqm
year:
2024
program:
Cascading single vacation house with storages and open summer kitchen
archaos team:
Srđan Ostojić, Toni Kerum, Krešimir Ćavar