Residential SERIES  •  Project FEATURE

Dialoguing with the Landscape – Lodge JR by Paul Dragicevic

Lodge JR is not merely placed on the land—it is embedded within it. The structure is a bold, rectangular volume of exposed concrete, positioned perpendicular to the site’s steep and rocky slope.

This strategic placement results in a striking contrast: while the southern end is partially buried into the terrain, the northern end extends more than four meters above ground, floating over the landscape. This elevation allows for an impressive three-tiered spatial arrangement, each with a distinct function. The lower level provides a semi-covered parking space, an often-overlooked yet essential feature that ensures convenience without disrupting the natural setting. The middle level is the heart of the residence, where the primary living spaces unfold in an intimate yet open layout. Above, the rooftop becomes an experiential fifth façade, offering a jacuzzi, a solarium, and an open-air viewpoint—a deliberate invitation to engage with the sky, the stars, and the ever-changing horizon.

"Each space in Lodge JR is designed to capture a moment of the landscape, transforming everyday life into a contemplative experience."

One of the most commendable aspects of Lodge JR is its conscious response to climate and orientation. The north-facing façade is meticulously designed to ensure seasonal comfort. In the heat of summer, the extended gallery-balcony provides full shade, while in winter, sunlight filters through, bathing the interiors in warmth. This careful balance between openness and shelter is further emphasized in the entrance placement at the southern end, shielding the residence from harsh southern winds. Such attention to passive climatic control not only enhances comfort but also underscores a commitment to sustainability. By leveraging natural conditions rather than relying on artificial temperature regulation, the design minimizes energy consumption—an intelligent approach that speaks to both ecological awareness and functional efficiency.

The material palette of Lodge JR is as restrained as it is deliberate. Exposed concrete dominates the structure, lending it a monolithic presence that feels at once contemporary and timeless. The use of burnt wooden boards adds a subtle texture to the façade, their charred surfaces echoing the ruggedness of the natural surroundings. Complementing these are loose pebbles, seamlessly integrated into the parking areas, exterior steps, and rooftop terrace. Inside, a surprising shift occurs. The starkness of the exterior gives way to the warmth of poplar wood, which envelops the interior walls. This contrast is more than aesthetic—it’s experiential. The transition from concrete to wood creates a sense of shelter and comfort, reinforcing the notion of the lodge as a refuge within the landscape. Beyond its visual appeal, the wood contributes to insulation, enhancing both thermal and acoustic comfort.

"Lodge JR is an invitation to live in connection with the surroundings, where design and nature engage in perfect harmony."

One of the most striking structural features of Lodge JR is its daring cantilever at the northern end. This bold architectural move is not just an aesthetic statement but a carefully engineered solution. The use of deep side beams on both slabs provides the necessary support, while also serving as functional elements—acting as railings below and as sunshades above. This dual-purpose design is particularly effective on the western side, where the sunshades are accentuated to mitigate heat gain while still allowing for a breathtaking view of the sunset. The result is an architecture that is not just visually compelling but also deeply responsive to its environment.

Every space within Lodge JR is conceived as a frame for the surrounding landscape. The shower, an often-overlooked domestic space, is positioned to offer a panoramic view of the distant mountains—a daily ritual transformed into a moment of contemplation. The rooftop, with its open-air jacuzzi, provides an unparalleled experience under the vast expanse of the night sky. The gallery-balcony, meanwhile, becomes an outdoor living space where the boundary between built structure and natural scenery dissolves. This ability to choreograph views and experiences is where Lodge JR excels. It does not impose itself upon the landscape; rather, it enhances the perception of it. The architecture serves as a medium through which nature is not just observed but deeply felt.

Lodge JR embodies a fascinating duality—its concrete form suggests permanence and solidity, yet its elevated position and open spaces evoke a sense of lightness. This paradox is what makes the project so compelling. It is firmly rooted in the land, yet it appears to hover above it, engaging in a constant dialogue between weight and levity, presence and openness. This balance is also reflected in its approach to maintenance. The choice of exposed concrete, burnt wood, and natural stone ensures durability and minimal upkeep, allowing the structure to withstand time without excessive intervention. It is a building designed not just for the present but for the long term, aligning with principles of sustainability and resilience.

Lodge JR is more than a retreat; it is an architectural statement that redefines how built form and landscape can coexist. Through its strategic positioning, intelligent material choices, and meticulous attention to environmental conditions, it offers a living experience that is both immersive and introspective. It is a place where architecture does not compete with nature but rather amplifies its beauty. Where the act of dwelling becomes an encounter with the elements—light, wind, stone, and sky. In this, Paul Dragicevic has crafted not just a building, but an experience—one that lingers long after one has left its concrete embrace.