Island Sanctuary

Set among pine trees on a steep hillside on the Croatian island of Iž, the project is conceived as a secluded retreat for a writer. Suspended above the natural terrain, the lightweight timber structure offers a quiet place for reading, writing and contemplation, with views across the Adriatic Sea. Generous cantilevered decks extend the living space into the landscape, carefully accommodating the existing trees and preserving the character of the site.

The compact interior combines a sleeping area, writing desk, bookshelves and integrated storage, while two outdoor decks accommodate a kitchen and an open-air shower. Natural materials define the architecture, from the exposed timber structure to the tree bark shingles that clad the facade. By using tree bark as the cladding material, the design explores a more resource-conscious approach to construction, seeking to make use of the entire tree and minimise waste.