Curious House: A Topography-Integrated Residential Design in Zagreb
FORVM architects blend architecture with natural landscape in this innovative Croatian home
1Project Overview
Curious House is a 400 m² residential project in Zagreb, Croatia, designed by FORVM architects. The structure transforms a steep, densely vegetated site into a harmonious living space. Scheduled for completion in 2026, the design uniquely integrates with the existing topography and mature trees. The architectural team led by Dinko Uglesic created a dwelling that blurs boundaries between built environment and natural landscape.
2Site Challenges
The architects faced significant challenges with the steeply sloped, tree-covered plot in Zagreb. Rather than leveling the terrain, they designed a solution that works with the natural topography. The dense vegetation was preserved and incorporated into the living experience. This approach required innovative structural solutions to create stable foundations while maintaining existing tree roots. The result is a home that appears to grow organically from its surroundings.
3Design Philosophy
FORVM's design philosophy for Curious House emphasizes layered domestic landscapes. The architecture creates multiple levels that follow the site's natural contours. Spaces flow between interior and exterior, with trees becoming integral architectural elements. Glass and concrete materials were carefully selected to complement the natural setting. The design transforms everyday living into an ongoing interaction with the site's unique characteristics.
4Material Selection
Key materials include glass and concrete, chosen for their durability and aesthetic qualities. Marazzi Tiles, PREFA, and Schuco products were specifically selected for their performance in the challenging site conditions. The material palette was designed to weather naturally over time, further blending the structure with its environment. Large glass panels provide transparency while concrete elements anchor the house to the steep terrain.
5Team Composition
The project team included lead architects Dinko Uglesic, Ina Vlahovic, and Marijana Rancic. Technical expertise came from Davor Banic, Mario Kuzmanic, and Mirjana Vitlov. Additional contributors were Marko Cindric, Pasko Giljanovic, and Filip Prekupec. This multidisciplinary team combined architectural vision with engineering solutions to realize the complex design. Their collaboration resulted in a home that successfully merges technical innovation with natural integration.
6Spatial Organization
The house organizes living spaces across multiple levels that follow the terrain's natural slope. Each area maintains visual connections to both interior and exterior environments. The layered approach creates distinct zones while preserving a sense of continuity. Circulation paths were carefully designed to navigate the steep site comfortably. This spatial arrangement transforms the challenging topography into an asset that enhances daily living experiences.
7Environmental Integration
Existing trees were preserved as central elements of the design, shaping both form and function. The architecture wraps around mature vegetation, creating micro-environments within the home. Natural light patterns change throughout the day as filtered through the tree canopy. Seasonal variations in vegetation become part of the living experience. This deep integration creates a dynamic relationship between architecture and ecosystem.
8Architectural Significance
Curious House represents an innovative approach to residential design in challenging landscapes. It demonstrates how architecture can enhance rather than dominate natural settings. The project pushes boundaries of site-specific design while maintaining practical living standards. Its completion in 2026 will offer valuable insights for future hillside developments. The design sets a precedent for environmentally sensitive architecture in urban contexts.