Villa Krasica by Zdl Arhitekti

The project is located in Krasica, Croatia, on a gently sloping site surrounded by natural greenery. From the outset, the main intention was to create a house that responds carefully to its surroundings, integrating architecture with the landscape, rather than imposing upon it. The design follows the existing topography, allowing the building to blend naturally into its context. The concept emphasizes continuity between interior and exterior spaces, openness, natural light, and unobstructed views of the surrounding environment.

One of the main challenges was adapting the house to the sloped terrain while maintaining clear and functional spaces. The design was divided into two levels – a basement and a ground floor – each responding differently to the site and program needs. Another key challenge was balancing privacy with openness, creating intimate areas while keeping visual connections to the landscape. The basement level accommodates private functions. Bedrooms are positioned along this level and open onto individual terraces, shaped to follow the natural slope, ensuring privacy while maintaining access to the outdoors. These terraces act as transitional zones, softening the boundary between the built structure and the natural environment. Being partially embedded into the terrain, the basement benefits from thermal stability and a stronger connection to the ground.