HOUSE MUTVORAN

LOCATION                mutvoran, croatia
PROJECT YEAR        2023
COMPLETION           /
TYPE                         residential
CLIENT                      private
RENDER                    kaja simicic, mateja zerjal
TEAM                        igor marasovic, gaja brulc, valentina bordon, nike olenik, . kaja simicic

The project is located in the small Istrian village of Mutvoran, just a few kilometers from the sea. Surrounded by unspoiled nature, the village offers a sense of peace and authenticity that shaped the direction of the entire design.

In addition to the renovation of the main structure—a traditional stone house—the project includes the design of the outdoor area with a swimming pool and an auxiliary building intended as a multi-purpose space for gatherings, meditation, exercise, and more.

The project was especially meaningful to us because we were able to approach it as a whole. The process unfolded organically and was full of inspiration, largely thanks to the atmosphere and character of the location itself.

The proximity to the sea and the calmness of the surroundings encouraged the client to invest in a second home, with the option of renting either the entire house or part of it. This added another layer to the task: the house needed to be flexible enough to accommodate at least two families or 8 to 10 people.

The client enjoys spending time outdoors with his family, so the exterior became the heart of the design—equipped with an outdoor kitchen and dining area, a platform for play or exercise, a swimming pool, and a generous green space. From this, the idea for an additional building emerged: a structure that could serve as a space for larger gatherings, movement, and even extra sleeping arrangements.

The original stone house featured smaller rooms on the ground floor, two bedrooms on the first floor, and an attic used for storage.

The ground floor has been opened up into a more fluid space that allows for better light flow and a stronger connection between the kitchen and living area. The fireplace remains in its original position and acts as a central feature, while the original stone stairs leading to the bedrooms were also preserved. Each bedroom has its own bathroom, and the master bedroom opens onto a private terrace, offering a sense of seclusion.

The client also wanted to use the attic, which hadn’t previously served as a living space. It now functions as a cozy area for smaller gatherings around the fireplace. With two small bedrooms and a bathroom, it can also be used as an independent unit.

Because the house is located in a protected cultural heritage zone, the interior was designed as a subtle complement to the existing architecture. The outer stone walls and ceiling were left exposed, while warmth was added through the use of natural materials typical of the Istrian region, such as wood and stone.

The interior is restrained and carefully considered. Black accents offer contrast but don’t overwhelm the space—instead, they emphasize the architecture and materials already present.