Architectural Cases

The 'Curious House' project redefines residential architecture by adeptly weaving a contemporary dwelling into a steeply sloped, heavily forested parcel in Zagreb, Croatia. This innovative design goes beyond mere construction, establishing a harmonious dialogue between the built environment and its lush surroundings. The resulting structure offers a multi-dimensional living experience, where the architectural form, the varied terrain, and the existing arboreal elements coalesce to shape daily life within the residence.

Details of the 'Curious House' Project in Zagreb

Completed in the year 2026, the 'Curious House' project, led by architect Dinko Uglesic and the team at FORVM, represents a significant achievement in residential architecture in Zagreb, Croatia. Located on a challenging, densely vegetated hillside, the 400 square meter property is a testament to thoughtful design that respects and integrates with its natural context. The project's core philosophy revolves around creating a 'layered domestic landscape,' where every aspect of the design—from the building's orientation to the selection of materials like glass and concrete—is meticulously planned to enhance the residents' connection with the unique topography and existing mature trees.

The house, situated in the vibrant city of Zagreb, stands as a prime example of how modern residential architecture can coexist and flourish within a complex natural setting. The careful consideration of the site's characteristics by architects FORVM, with key contributions from Ina Vlahovic, Marijana Rancic, Davor Banic, Mario Kuzmanic, Mirjana Vitlov, Marko Cindric, Pasko Giljanovic, and Filip Prekupec, has resulted in a dwelling that is both aesthetically pleasing and profoundly integrated with its environment. This project not only provides a sophisticated living space but also offers a blueprint for sustainable development on challenging sites.

This architectural endeavor provides an inspiring model for integrating contemporary living spaces with challenging natural landscapes. It underscores the potential for design to enhance, rather than diminish, the inherent beauty and characteristics of a site. The 'Curious House' encourages us to consider how our built environments can respond more thoughtfully to their natural contexts, creating homes that are not just structures, but living extensions of the land itself. It's a powerful reminder that innovative design can lead to residences that are both functional and deeply connected to nature.

The Madrid Regional Government and the Leganés City Council have collectively embarked on an ambitious urban planning and design competition. This initiative seeks to gather innovative proposals for the creation of a new, sustainable, and forward-thinking district named "Puerta de Madrid." Situated strategically adjacent to the northern and eastern fringes of the established Leganés Norte neighborhood, this expansive development is set to redefine urban living.

Madrid and Leganés Seek Innovative Designs for "Puerta de Madrid" Sustainable District

In a collaborative effort, the Community of Madrid and the Leganés City Council have announced an open call for urban design proposals. This competition aims to shape the future "Puerta de Madrid" district, a significant urban development located next to Leganés Norte. This extensive project, covering over one million square meters, will be jointly managed by both public administrations through a dedicated consortium.

A key feature of the proposed district is the Butarque Stream, which will serve as a central ecological element, connecting the area to broader natural corridors such as the Arco Verde and Bosque Metropolitano. The development plan dedicates approximately 40% of its vast area to green spaces and public open areas, emphasizing a commitment to environmental integration and community well-being. The remaining 60% will be allocated to public facilities, commercial zones, and residential use.

The district is designed to accommodate approximately 4,000 new residences. Of these, around 1,500 units will be market-rate homes, offering a variety of typologies to cater to different needs. Crucially, 2,500 units are designated for public housing schemes or affordable rental programs, addressing the critical need for accessible housing within the region.

Proposals submitted to the competition must demonstrate seamless integration with the existing urban fabric of Leganés and must adhere to advanced criteria across several key areas. These include environmental sustainability, urban innovation, energy efficiency, sustainable mobility, climate resilience, and social cohesion. A panel of expert jurors will meticulously review all submissions, ultimately selecting the top three designs. Following this selection, a procurement process will allow the winning teams to compete for a service contract, which will entail drafting the detailed planning instrument that will guide the urban development of this pioneering district.

This initiative represents a significant step forward in urban planning, showcasing a commitment to creating vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive communities. The integration of natural elements, diverse housing options, and a strong focus on environmental and social considerations sets a high standard for future urban developments. The collaborative approach between the regional government and the city council also highlights the importance of multi-level governance in achieving ambitious urban development goals.