Studio Pokoja Maslina has demonstrated that the mix of minimalism and clean lines with traditional materials like stone creates perfect harmony. With the project Villas Smol in the picturesque village of Smoljanci, just 15 minutes from the coastal town of Rovinj, this newly established architectural studio has quickly proven its prowess in creating spaces that not only captivate the visual senses but also engage touch and imagination.

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Project Villas Smol

Founded with the vision of crafting architecture that awakens all the senses, Studio Pokoja Maslina has infused this project with a careful selection of materials and compositions. The four villas, designed with meticulous attention to detail from the grandest scale to the smallest, exemplify this philosophy. Each villa features a dual-wing layout, with a visually dominant two-story stone-clad wing topped with a sloped roof and a more subtle, single-story concrete wing with a flat roof. The ground-level wing opens up to a spacious, covered terrace through expansive glass walls, creating a diffused space that merges the indoors with the outdoors seamlessly.

The 90-square-meter terrace, complete with an outdoor kitchen, living area, and dining space, is sheltered from the sun yet offers unobstructed views of the valley and the village and catch glimpses of the Adriatic sea. The villas' surroundings are adorned with indigenous horticulture, including olive trees, lavender, mint, and other aromatic herbs that line the pool and sunbathing area, enhancing the sensory experience.

Each villa, spanning 300-350 square meters, accommodates eight people in four en-suite bedrooms, each featuring a walk-in closet. The interiors and exteriors are harmoniously connected by large glass walls that fully open, creating a cohesive living space that blurs the lines between indoor and outdoor living. The villas also boast a spa room with a sauna and direct access to the pool, providing a private retreat for ultimate relaxation.

'Mediterandi' Approach

Studio Pokoja Maslina draws inspiration from both local and international influences. Their approach, described as "Mediterandi," blends Mediterranean elements with compositions and styles from Denmark and Scandinavia, inspired by the team's experiences and the beauty of Croatian architecture and lifestyle. This synthesis of styles is evident in the Villas Smol, where classic materials are complemented by contemporary twists to create timeless elegance.

Architect Gabriela Rukavina, a leading figure in the studio, emphasizes the social impact of architecture and its ability to shape experiences and emotions. "At Pokoja Maslina, we find inspiration in captivating spaces. For me, architecture is a social act. It has the power to shape and influence experiences and emotions. Growing up in Croatia, I began implementing elements of Croatian culture and its rich tradition and lifestyle in my projects. I find inspiration in local aesthetics and try to incorporate it into our design projects so that they speak of time and place but yearn for timelessness and class. Our design process commonly includes turning a classic element, which can often be found in architecture, into a timeless and elegant element that brings beauty to a user's daily life. We complement classic materials with contemporary touches and twists in our projects."

Functionality and Sustainability

In terms of functionality, each villa is a smart home equipped with a system that allows owners to control and monitor the house via an application. The use of high-quality materials and meticulous planning has earned the villas the status of passive houses. The addition of solar panels on the flat roofs enables the villas to nearly meet their own energy and heating needs, underscoring a commitment to sustainability. Also, automatic watering system is installed throughout each plot to take care and water all the extensive landscape. How amazing is that?

The outdoor spaces are thoughtfully designed to enhance the experience of the Mediterranean climate. Guests can enjoy charming outdoor living rooms and kitchens, perfect for alfresco dining and entertaining. The pool provides a refreshing escape, while the private spa and wellness area offers rejuvenation and tranquility. That's what we call a dream vacation home.

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Villas Smol by Studio Pokoja Maslina embodies the perfect blend of elegance and functionality. They offer a sanctuary where modern design meets serene tranquility, promising an unforgettable experience for those seeking refinement and luxury in the heart of Istria.