Villa Croatia

Designs for this new house on an unspoiled Dalmatian island draw on the Italian-influenced buildings of the Republic of Ragusa, especially the villas of the aristocracy around Dubrovnik. The site overlooks the Adriatic with islands stretching in layers to the far distance. The site plan’s blue line delineates required set-backs from boundaries. Nothing can be built at all in this zone, so the plan kisses the line. Challenge like this often results prompts strong responses and here this is the long pool interlocking with the house, compact strong forms and interior and exterior spaces that engage with each other dynamically. Six bedrooms are separated for privacy, living areas allow large group or intimate gatherings and the kitchen is the fulcrum around which summer living pivots.

The building’s architectural language speaks Dalmatian vernacular with classical references and a modernist accent. The entrance on the east is relatively closed for privacy and in recognition of the absence of views. The larger block is rendered in a subdued, recessive colour derived from the extant surrounding vegetation. The smaller block is finished from local stone reclaimed from ruined structures. Forms and levels follow the contours and comply with strict controls on design. The south elevation opens progressively as the spectacular views emerge, the infinity edge swimming pool in the foreground. The primary space is in fact external: a double-height loggia commanding sea and sky and capturing welcome breezes. A high veranda/colonnade shades glass expanses and forms a spine through the design from outside, in and out again. The roof of local tiles is punctuated only by a chimney, as an outbuilding accommodates solar panels.