Dunja Smiljanic
student
University of Belgrade, Faculty of Architecture, Belgrade, Serbia
Serbia
Architecture
The project site is located in the immediate vicinity of Starigrad, a Croatian village near Zadar, a popular tourist destination. Starigrad is a traditional… more
Muzamil Mutalib
advisor
City University Malaysia
Malaysia
Lecturer specializing in Interior Design and Architecture, with a strong passion for blending… more
This project presents an impressive and contextually sensitive response to a highly complex site, demonstrating a deep understanding of landscape, heritage and environmental integration. The concept of embedding villas into the terrain as cave like dwellings is both poetic and practical, offering a respectful architectural intervention that honors the natural topography and historical roots of the region. The design intelligently adapts to the steep slopes and leverages local materials like stone to establish a dialogue between built and natural environments.
The spatial configuration of the zones from private villas and commercial areas to the marina and coastal promenade displays a well considered masterplan with a clear hierarchy and thoughtful circulation. The visual identity created through terraced forms and green roofs helps soften the architectural presence, ensuring harmony with the untouched surroundings. The project’s use of vegetation as both a functional and aesthetic tool enhances the user experience and reflects strong sustainability values.
To strengthen the scheme further, future development could explore how the interior spatial quality of the embedded villas interacts with natural light, views and ventilation. Additionally, integrating renewable energy systems and detailed material studies could elevate the environmental performance of the design.
Overall, this proposal excels in narrative, landscape sensitivity and cohesive planning an evocative and grounded vision of sustainable tourism architecture. Well done!