The project is situated in Slovenia’s Karst region, characterized by a Mediterranean climate and a dry, rocky terrain blanketed with endless vineyards and pine forests.
This abandoned barn, located at the heart of a small village, has walls that curve along narrow streets between houses. It appears to rise naturally from the rocky landscape, facing southwest toward a secluded garden and overlooking the hills of Trieste city.
The renovation was approached with care and respect for the original structure. Efforts were made to preserve elements such as the stone window and door frames, the oak roof structure, the weathered façade, and the blacksmith’s tools, all pointing to the barn’s past as the home of a cow named Sivka (meaning lavender). The building was given the name “Kambra,” a local dialect term referring to the multifunctional rooms on the ground floor of traditional Karst houses.
In the garden, a newly constructed single-story building supports Kambra’s modern function as a comfortable vacation retreat. Facing the residential area, this new structure defines the boundaries of the protected courtyard and reinterprets the local architectural style, which forms the heart of every home in the region.
The primary materials used throughout the project are simple yet durable. The concrete foundation and natural oak veneer soften the details of the black iron framing, ensuring durability and tactile quality throughout. The combination of new materials and the careful integration with old elements reflects the house’s endurance over time, embracing its marks and scars.
The original building was reinforced internally with concrete and stone. Externally, the new structure features exposed cast concrete, echoing its original appearance.
For over 400 years, this house has gradually evolved, enduring wind and rain. Concrete structures will eventually be embraced by life in various forms and bear the marks of rainwater. The current unified and sharp form will become an integral part of the landscape, much like the surrounding rocks. This process of transformation continues to be its true designer.
△ Plan View
Project Information
Project Type: Independent Residence, Renovation
Location: Slovenia
Architectural Design: Lucija Penko, Medprostor d.o.o.
Year: 2018
Manufacturers: Jansen, BORA, Flos, Nestor Martin, Vibia
Lead Architects: Lucija Penko MArch ARB, Rok Žnidaršič u.d.i.a., Medprostor d.o.o.
Structure: Franc Pezdirc s.p.
Electrical: Electrical Communications John Meznar s.p.
Mechanical: Installations Ales Abram Spa
Scenery: Propepa d.o.o.
Main Contractor: Stoplfa Construction Company d.o.o.
Ironwork: Locksmith Marjan Golob s.p.
Joinery: Fisher Henrik s.p.
Photographer: John Marolt
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