Ivid Design Atelier
Belići 7, 51215 Kastav, Hrvatska

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Villa Leucolea, design and architecture in harmony with nature

Naslovna
Modern villa on the island of Cres, inspired by Mediterranean life.

Hidden among the olive trees and beside the quiet blue of the Adriatic Sea, Villa Leucolea is a fusion of contemporary design and authentic Mediterranean spirit. Every corner of this holiday home tells a story, from the interior details to the exterior perfectly integrated into the environment of the island of Cres.

We found inspiration for the design in the island’s nature and the investor’s olive-growing tradition. We enriched the space with green hues, from the dark green window frames to the light green doors and furniture, while freshly picked olive branches bring an authentic Mediterranean ambiance. Light blue wall claddings are reminiscent of the sea and create a feeling of airiness and freedom throughout the home.

We paid special attention to connecting the interior and exterior spaces. The kitchen is designed as the heart of the home, with windows and passages leading to the terrace and garden, while the cabinets hide practical corners like the laundry room. We designed every space to be both aesthetically appealing and maximally functional, with an emphasis on details such as visible electrical outlets that allow for a modern, digitally connected everyday life.

All the furniture was designed and custom-made by us, combining veneered chipboard and olive wood to ensure the space retains a natural character and durability, even with intensive use. Walls made of artificial stone and HDP (High-Density Plastic) materials protect the interior while simultaneously introducing warmth and texture, creating an ambiance that withstands time and everyday life in tourism.

Villa Leucolea is not just a holiday home. It is a Mediterranean oasis where nature and design exist in perfect balance. Every detail, from the color palette to the materials and furniture, is designed to provide harmony, comfort, and a memorable experience.

From the very beginning, we focused on connecting the kitchen with the exterior space, creating an open and functional flow between the indoor and outdoor zones. The kitchen cabinets were also used as a discreet passage to a hidden laundry room, adding an unexpected and practical dimension to the space. With our solutions, we aimed to get the maximum out of every corner and find unusual, interesting approaches that enrich the daily stay.

The design and architecture are integrated into nature and the environment, harmoniously following the existing elements and creating a sense of balance between the building and the Mediterranean surroundings.

For this interior, we developed three concept variants. The first was the team’s completely authentic vision, the second included adjustments according to the investor’s wishes, and the third was further aligned with practical needs. In the case of this villa, we realized the first version, fully retaining our original idea and style.

Given that the investors are involved in olive growing, we decided on the theme of olives and the Mediterranean. From that idea, we developed a pleasant greenish palette, from the dark green window frames to the light green doors and furniture in all rooms, creating a harmonious and fresh Mediterranean ambiance.

All the furniture in the interior was designed and custom-made by us, from the tables and outdoor side tables, through the kitchen and cabinets, to the beds and smaller drawers/cupboards. We chose veneered chipboard with an oiled finish, featuring visible wood fragments, so that the surfaces retain their character even with daily use. This approach ensures the longevity of the furniture and easier restoration, while the space retains a warm and natural feel.

Wall claddings made of durable HDP (High-Density Plastic) material are used to protect the walls during guest stays, while artificial stone walls, besides bringing warmth to the space, are strategically placed in the most exposed areas like the staircase. Even if they get damaged, they look intentionally placed and do not compromise the aesthetic.

Real stone also extends through the exterior, cladding the outdoor area and the pool surroundings. The outdoor kitchen, whose main structure is concrete, is also clad with the same stone to visually connect it with the rest of the villa. We specially designed the pool for this house, giving it a unique character and making it stand out from the offerings of other luxury accommodations on the market.

The lighting throughout the entire property, including the ceiling lighting, was carefully planned to create warm ambient atmospheres and highlight key interior elements.

Although they planned to achieve the standard four stars, the house deservedly received five. The inspectors who have been doing this job for twenty years were delighted. They said that there is no more beautiful and better-equipped house on the whole of Cres, and they awarded it the highest category without hesitation.

With a total area of 120 m² on the ground floor and 60 m² on the first floor, the house is a real treat. It is a special experience for all who visit it via websites, and an even greater one for those who spend their vacation in it.

Instead of exclusively using luxurious materials and prestigious brands, we wanted to create a softer, more accessible approach to furnishing. All the details and equipment were sourced from standard stores, but carefully selected to make the space warm, functional, and resistant to daily use.