2 Cubes

While some contemporary architecture may be characterized by monumental structures serving primarily as spatial landmarks, low-rise architecture offers a fertile ground for exceptional ideas. The principle of „less is more“ transcends mere rhetoric and becomes a challenging yet potentially rewarding design principle, capable of producing truly remarkable architecture. Based on this principle, the development of the 2 CUBES resulted from several key factors: the site's exceptional natural beauty significantly influenced the structure's design and position; the client's unwavering confidence in the project's vision was instrumental; and, finally, zoning regulations permitted the application of contemporary architectural principles in this location.
Location
Daljam Village
City
Danilovgrad
Area
434 m2
Client
Private
Year
2020
Status
Design

The design concept prioritizes harmonizing the building with its environment. However, complete integration with the landscape was intentionally avoided; the scattered rocks subtly suggest a counterpoint, influencing the building's design to be somewhat assertive. This passive-aggressive approach led to a form composed of two irregularly positioned cubes. The chosen materials simultaneously aim for integration and a subtle defiance of the natural surroundings.

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The base cube is clad in natural stone plates; specifically, locally sourced, roughly hewn rock cut into large blocks, averaging 2 x 0.9 meters. The base cube serves as a pedestal for the structure above. Careful material selection ensures seamless integration with the surrounding landscape. In contrast, the upper cube's position, size, shape, and materials are designed to stand in stark opposition to its environment. However, its rose gold matte aluminum cladding, chosen to complement the autumnal colors of the landscape (ranging from greens and yellows to oranges), provides a point of visual harmony.

From specific viewpoints, the building’s design may evoke a science fiction aesthetic, creating the illusion of a seven-meter cantilever seemingly supported by irregularly positioned columns. These columns are black, intended to minimize their visual impact on the building’s overall appearance.

The highly energy-efficient and sustainable design of 2 CUBES functions as an independent, integrated unit. Planned installation systems incorporate triple-glazed windows, a geothermal heat pump, and a solar-powered centralized water heating system. The building’s orientation maximizes solar gain, with the south-facing fully glazed ground floor, the master bedroom to the southwest, and other rooms to the southeast.

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Gallery

Credits

Architect
NRA Atelier
Project Lead
Nikola Radović
Visualizations
Nikola Radović
Interior Design
Nina Simović
Copyright
NRA Atelier