Modern Design Makes the Outdoors a Living Space
Using a simple modular design, Ofis Architects created a highly flexible and economic design solution in their proposal for low-cost housing along the Izola Bay, Slovenia.
Part of a state run contest, this winning entry designed two housing blocks for the Slovenia Housing Fund- a government-run program providing low-cost apartments for young families. This proposal won largely for its excellent ratio between gross vs. saleable surface area as well as for its flexibility in design.
Each building contains thirty apartments of different sizes and structures, varying from studio flats to 3-bedroom units. The apartments are small, with minimum-sized rooms according to Slovenian standards, however there are no structural elements inside the apartments which lends itself to reorganizing as needs change. A great idea for apartments that might be utilized by growing families.
The apartments all have the verandas that jut out off of the building, creating an interesting design element from the exterior of the building, as well as providing additional outdoor living space for the occupants. I love the multi-colored canvas shades that can be pulled down for privacy or shielding the sun’s rays. The verandas also allow views of the Mediterranean coast, bringing the outdoor feeling into a small interior space.
