The client acquired a plot near Dubrovnik, set in a sheltered bay high on the hillside with views of the Elafiti Islands. Their goal was to build a sustainable family home that blends with the landscape while offering enough space for their adult children to visit and ensuring privacy for all. The house was designed as a modular, low-energy structure to minimize environmental impact and ensure efficient construction.

The design follows the natural terrain, preserving the existing olive grove and reducing excavation. The house is positioned along the land’s contours to lower its ecological footprint. The garage and workshop are placed beneath the main ground-floor terrace, keeping functional spaces out of sight while maximizing outdoor areas.

The ground floor is an open-plan living space that extends outdoors, featuring a grill area and bar for gatherings. Large glass openings connect the interior with the surroundings, bringing in natural light and framing sea views. The upper floor, supported by concealed pillars, houses four bedrooms with privacy and panoramic vistas. A floating concrete staircase leads to the rooftop terrace, which includes a bar and lounge area for relaxation and entertaining.

The house is built using prefabricated components, reducing construction waste and on-site disruption while ensuring precision. This approach enhances energy efficiency through superior insulation and airtightness. The outdoor spaces blend with the Mediterranean landscape. The swimming pool and beach area are sunken into the terrain to preserve views and privacy. Native vegetation, including olive trees, lavender, and rosemary, requires minimal irrigation, while stone pathways and terraces connect different levels of the site.

The material palette draws from Dalmatian architecture, combining local stone, wood, and concrete for a modern but natural look. Passive cooling, cross-ventilation, and deep overhangs reduce energy use. Solar panels provide renewable energy, and a rainwater collection system supports irrigation. High-performance glazing minimizes heat gain while keeping the space bright.

This home balances modern design, sustainability, and integration with its surroundings, creating a low-energy retreat that respects the landscape while providing comfortable living.