When architecture and design create projects that redefine the concept of home with elegance and simplicity, we witness a true artistic achievement. One such example is a family house in southern Zagreb that perfectly blends nature and contemporary trends with the owners' authentic personality. Architects Lucija Puljić and Biserka Silić Matošević from the brand Dizajn Pod have crafted a harmonious story celebrating the art of minimalism and functionality.

Architecture with Soul: The Interaction of Nature and Home Warmth

The family house project in Lučko was designed for a young family of three who appreciate minimalism and clean lines. The emphasis is on the natural harmony of the exterior and interior, neutral tones, and warm wooden elements. Natural light through large glass walls allows direct interaction with nature, making the garden within the window frames a kind of artistic installation. The exterior façade announces the same treatment in the interior, creating fluid spaces that exude airiness.

Architect Lucija Puljić, co-owner of the EL BE architectural studio, strives to create spaces that embody the soul of the owners. Her design philosophy is based on minimalism and clean lines, always keeping in mind that aesthetics must follow function. Lucija designs industrial projects, residential buildings, and family houses, especially enjoying projects where she can be involved from the initial construction to the final interior design.

"As architects, we not only create visually attractive projects but also ensure the functionality of spaces. We create meaningful spaces that serve people and evoke positive emotions. This is exactly what happened with this young family's home. We wanted to create airiness and depth in the space, where the living room seamlessly communicates with the kitchen. Storage is hidden, and a minimal number of items are on display. The initial idea was a neutral background with elements that bring warmth to the space, which is reflected throughout the interior – from decorative resin floors to light stone and wooden accents," explained Lucija Puljić.

This young architect and interior designer is particularly proud of the cantilevered staircase that brings dynamism and rhythm to the space, as well as the idea of hidden storage spaces contributing to a clean and organized home look. The owners quickly embraced the design vision and found themselves in it, resulting in a truly inspiring interior.

Materials Bringing Nature into Interiors

Biserka Silić Matošević has been leading the company Dizajn Pod with her husband for 15 years, setting high standards in the flooring industry. This family company specializes in professional flooring solutions and artistic panels, equipping commercial and residential spaces across the region. They focus on innovative solutions, functionality, and material durability, with an emphasis on aesthetic value.

"Partnerships with renowned global material manufacturers advocating sustainability and green production allow us to live our values in business daily. Our goal is to provide architects and designers with the freedom to bring nature to life in interiors. In this project, we combined decorative resin flooring with large-format finished parquet, achieving a warm effect in the seating area and easier maintenance in the kitchen zone. The parquet is made from oak, lacquered with a special varnish that retains the natural look of raw wood, further emphasizing the authenticity of nature and the interior's aesthetics," highlighted Biserka Silić Matošević.

Collaboration Based on Shared Life Values

The collaboration between these two interior design enthusiasts began almost ten years ago when Lucija was still in college. Over the years, mutual trust and shared life values have become the foundation of their partnership, which is now felt and reflected in every aspect of their joint work. Lucija gladly emphasizes the unconditional support of the Dizajn Pod team and their expertise in successfully meeting the most demanding client requirements. On the other hand, Biserka recognizes the added value of her business in encouraging and supporting young talents.

"We are extremely pleased to support young people. This adds value to our work and truly fulfills us. We noticed Lucija's talent during her studies; we like to say she was an uncut diamond. She shares our values and bravely embarks on new projects, always seeking the best solutions for her clients. She was among the first to recognize the potential of our decorative resin, confirming her openness to innovation and willingness to push the boundaries in the interior design industry," emphasized Biserka Silić Matošević.

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This inspiring project is just one example of how a shared passion for design, trust, and life values often result in the successful realization of a vision for a living space.

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