Spirito Dalmata

Concept, Main and Detailed Design for a detached house in Zadar.

The concept originates from the context: although the design includes two residential units, they are intended to function as two distinct houses. The starting point was the typology of traditional Dalmatian semi-attached houses – those that evolved over time, expanded and adapted according to lived needs.

At first glance, such houses may seem unstructured, often breaking away from orthogonal grids. Yet precisely this asymmetry reveals their utilitarian logic and deep connection to everyday life. The alternating rhythm of open, shaded, covered, and enclosed spaces creates a particular atmosphere – one that does not arise from form alone, but from the way space is used. An atmosphere that was once an everyday reality, and today is either erased or reduced to nostalgia in contemporary architecture.

This project brings that atmosphere back – without nostalgia, and without pretence.
It is present, but refined; adapted to the needs and habits of contemporary users.
The protrusions on the façade and balconies, overgrown with greenery, are inspired by traditional dry-stone walls; pergolas extending from them define a rhythm of light and shade, shaping the outdoor space as a true extension of the interior.

Project brief

Two independent residential units with the character of traditional Dalmatian homes – with privacy ensured.

Each unit includes its own terrace with a generous covered outdoor area and a summer kitchen.

One unit contains a wellness area with a pool; the other, a garage.
Each floor maintains a strong connection with the exterior, with most rooms offering direct access to a balcony or garden.

Mission accomplished

Inspired by the logic of traditional Dalmatian housing clusters, the project balances residential functionality with the potential for short-term rental.

The street-facing elevation clearly suggests two separate volumes. The front unit appears as the original structure, while the second seems to have been added behind it at a later time – a layered composition typical of Mediterranean settlements.
The elevation difference between the two reinforces this depth.

The balcony protrusions are not only decorative — they help regulate the microclimate, define a buffer zone between interior and exterior, and act as supports for pergolas with integrated planting.

The entire structure will be built using Iso-span mineralised wood-cement blocks.
The energy needs of the house will be met through solar panels and heat pumps.
Private ground-floor gardens are planted with native species, and filtered pool water will be reused for irrigation.

Note on bio-integration

This project incorporates several bio-integrated elements:
continuous visual and spatial connection with nature, greenery embedded in architectural elements, private gardens with native plants, connection to water, natural materials in the exterior, sheltered human-scale outdoor spaces, microclimate regulation through vegetation and shade, and preservation of local identity through form.

However, the project is not classified as bio-architectural due to the high share of concrete in the structural system, use of PVC joinery, and dominance of plastic and synthetic materials in the interior.