In the midst of the bustling architectural landscape of Opatija, the Tiny House Movement has found a unique expression through the innovative project by Planerai. Embracing the essence of downsized living, this tiny house, nestled near the renowned Opatian Riviera, challenges the traditional notions of luxury with its modest footprint of just 30 square meters. Beyond its size, this project embodies a harmonious blend of minimalist design, ecological sensitivity, and a profound connection with nature.

Design Philosophy and Spatial Elegance

The Planerai's project involves the transformation and expansion of an existing structure, skillfully connecting to its original walls while introducing a gallery space. Architect Matej Raič, the visionary behind this endeavor, shares insights into the design philosophy, stating, "We find challenges like this very exciting, where careful planning is needed to arrange all necessary functions in a small space, making them logical and harmonious."

The open-concept floor plan spans two dimensions, with the ground floor housing a multifunctional living area, a compact kitchen, and a surprisingly spacious bathroom. A set of stairs leads to the gallery, doubling as storage space and a wine fridge, where the bedroom is located, providing a private retreat. 

The entire house is adorned with a minimalist aesthetic, and the addition of wooden panels on the walls brings a cozy warmth to the interior. Natural light streams through strategically placed windows, enhancing the overall sense of spaciousness and tranquility.

Seamless Integration with Nature

Planerai takes pride in seamlessly connecting the living space with the surrounding natural beauty. The incorporation of a green wall, a vertical surface adorned with plants, serves as a visual bridge between the interior and exterior, reinforcing the symbiotic relationship with nature.

The gallery features a sliding glass door reminiscent of a French balcony, allowing inhabitants to immerse themselves in the tranquil environment. The play of light, both artificial and natural, further enhances this connection, creating an ethereal atmosphere within the confined space.

Architectural Innovation and Green Elements

The architects at Planerai sought to emphasize the lush vegetation enveloping the house, too. Elevated pathways made of gridded panels, allowing blades of grass to pass through freely, create an almost invisible connection with the ground. 

This small "zen" area unfolds in the garden, featuring wooden islands emerging from the sea of vegetation. An island positioned in front of the house integrates a built-in table and seating, minimizing the need for bulky furniture indoors. A lower-level island hosts a built-in jacuzzi, providing a luxurious touch to the outdoor living experience. Completing the holistic living experience, an essential barbecue area stands beside the house. Don't tell us this doesn't sound tempting! This harmonious blend of nature, relaxation, and entertainment creates a captivating haven in the yard. 

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Planerai's tiny oasis stands as a testament to the transformative power of thoughtful design, redefining the possibilities of sustainable and harmonious living in a compact space. If you're interested in joining the tiny house movement trend and would like to learn more about Planerai projects, make sure to follow them on Facebook and Instagram @planerai.

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