The Coast Residence

Contextualizing building design with nature to the highest degree presents a challenging yet rewarding endeavor. Minimally invasive, or at least contextually sensitive design that harmonizes with the natural terrain yields significant professional satisfaction, aligning perfectly with NRA's chosen philosophy. The Coast Residence exemplifies our core values, demonstrating the possibility of respectful coexistence with, and sensitive integration into the natural environment. The building's ambiance provides an exclusive, secluded, serene, and contemporary meditative experience, further enhanced by open scenic views of the Adriatic Sea. This creates a comprehensive, retreat-like atmosphere within a comfortable, home-like setting.
Location
Kavač Village, Montenegro
City
Kotor
Area
2000 m2
Client
Private
Year
2021
Status
Design

The Coast Residence is a distinctive, free-form residential structure. Its design, including the accompanying landscaping, employs a contemporary architectural style incorporating traditional elements in a modern context. The building’s form and placement are significantly influenced by the site’s topography. The exceptionally steep terrain necessitated a design where portions of the building are positioned in a staggered sequence across the flatter areas. The Coast Residence seamlessly integrates with its surroundings. Its understated design is maximized; it is invisible from the access road. Visually, the building appears to emerge from the hillside, becoming a harmonious component of the landscape. This design adheres to the principle of minimal environmental impact, reflecting a core philosophy of coexisting with nature. The building’s planned amenities, contemporary materials and construction methods, and innovative applications of traditional materials all adhere to the original design principles. This demonstrates the harmonious integration of modern architecture within its natural surroundings, avoiding visual disruption or environmental damage.

A_9 - Photo
A_8 - Photo

Exterior materials range from locally sourced Nikšić stone to silicate render, wood, and glass. To optimize construction costs and streamline the building process, all facade openings are designed for two-dimensional prefabrication: one size for apartment sliding doors, and another for communal areas (staircases, hallways). Vertical green walls serve as apartment partitions. All nineteen apartments utilize a modular design; the skeletal frame allows flexible unit combinations, enabling expansion or subdivision. Each apartment enjoys an unobstructed sea view, with ground floor units featuring private gardens.

Given the site’s challenging terrain and the building’s upper-level access road, the flat green roof is utilized for vehicle parking. The building’s design ensures complete visual concealment from the access road, presenting only the parking area and a covered elevator entrance. This elevator will provide convenient access to the building’s amenities from the rooftop parking lot. The landscaping plan prioritizes the preservation of native species, supplemented by the reintroduction and diversification of local flora.

Gallery

Credits

Architect
NRA Atelier
Project Lead
Nikola Radović
Visualizations
Miloš Popović
Copyright
NRA Atelier
Concept Design
Nikola Radović